Protecting Yourself and the Ocean: A Guide to Sustainable Surfing Practices

As a surfer, you know that spending time in the ocean can be exhilarating, but it's also essential to take care of the environment and your own skin. In this post, we'll explore some sustainable surfing practices that will help you minimize your impact on the ocean and sensitive skin.

Scenario: Emily's Surf Trip

Emily is a beginner surfer who just moved to a new coastal town. She loves catching waves at a popular beach break known for its consistent swells and warm water. Before her first surf trip, Emily notices that the local surf shop is selling a lot of reef-safe sunscreen, but she's not sure if it's being applied correctly.

As she gets ready to hit the lineup, Emily decides to use a conventional sunscreen on her sensitive skin, despite knowing that it contains oxybenzone and octinoxate, two chemicals linked to coral bleaching and marine life toxicity. She applies a thick layer, hoping for the best, but soon regrets her decision when the sun beats down.

The next day, Emily feels intense discomfort from the wax in her sunscreen, which clogs pores and causes redness. She scratches her skin, causing more irritation and potentially leading to infection or even permanent scarring.

Sustainable Surfing Practices to Follow

To minimize your impact on the ocean and sensitive skin, try these sustainable surfing practices:

1. Choose reef-safe sunscreen: Opt for sunscreens that contain zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, which are less likely to harm coral reefs.
2. Apply sunscreen correctly: Apply a thin layer of sunscreen to all exposed skin 15-30 minutes before heading out into the water. Reapply every two hours or immediately after swimming or sweating.
3. Use eco-friendly surf wax: Instead of using conventional surf wax, choose wax that's made from natural ingredients and is free from chemicals like oxybenzone and octinoxate.
4. Respect your skin: If you experience any irritation or discomfort while surfing, stop immediately and try a different sunscreen or moisturizer.
5. Conserve water: Avoid washing your hair with soap or shampoo, as these products can harm marine life.

Protecting Sensitive Skin While Surfing

If you have sensitive skin, it's essential to take extra precautions when surfing. Here are some tips:

1. Use a gentle surf wax: Opt for wax that's specifically designed for sensitive skin.
2. Moisturize after surfing: Apply a hydrating lotion or cream to help soothe and calm your skin.
3. Avoid harsh chemicals: Steer clear of products containing sulfates, parabens, or artificial fragrances, which can irritate your skin.

Conclusion

Sustainable surfing practices are essential for protecting both the ocean and your own sensitive skin. By choosing reef-safe sunscreen, applying it correctly, and using eco-friendly surf wax, you can minimize your impact on the environment while still enjoying the thrill of surfing. Remember to respect your skin and take necessary precautions to protect yourself from harsh chemicals and irritation. With these tips, you'll be well on your way to becoming a responsible surfer who cares about the ocean and its inhabitants. Here's a comparison of the original post with a table view:

Comparison Table

Note that the original post mentions choosing reef-safe sunscreen and applying it correctly, which are both good practices. However, the scenario suggests a misunderstanding of these practices.

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