If you boat, you expose your skin to a lot of sun, end of story. To protect your skin from sun damage and reduce the risk of skin cancer, you should protect yourself with the proper clothing and sunscreen. For clothing, look for a high UPF rating, which measures the amount of UV rays the material blocks from your skin. For sunscreen, the SPF rating refers to the amount of time it takes for UV-exposed skin to burn. SPF 15 means you’re protected 15 times longer than you would be with nothing. Here are three types of sun protection to choose from.
Performance Shirt
Costa Del Mar, Hooded Technical Shirt
The Shade: The sunglasses manufacturer also makes a nice, lightweight shirt from 100 percent recycled polyester that offers a high UPF 50 rating. The hood adds an extra dimension of protection because you can pull it over your head to keep the sun off your dome. It’s a great way to ensure full sun coverage on the water.
The Burn: Even though it’s breathable and lightweight, the long sleeves will definitely be warmer on the water than if you wore short sleeves and sunscreen.
Price: $45; costadelmar.com
Spray-On Sunscreen
Coppertone, Sport SPF 30
The Shade: Spray-on sunscreen is easy to apply and stows in your boat’s glove box. The fast-drying formula goes on cool, is water-resistant for 80 minutes, and works even when you sweat. Dermatologists recommend going with a minimum SPF 15, and SPF 30 provides more sun protection without feeling greasy.
The Burn: Accidentally inhaling spray-on sunscreen can irritate your lungs. Don’t forget to reapply every 80 minutes or so during the course of the day.
Price: $13.98 for two 5.5-ounce cans; amazon.com
Read Next: Adding a Sun Shade to Your Boat
Sunscreen Lotion
Neutrogena, Ultra Sheer Dry Touch SPF 55
The Shade: A lot of people prefer using lotion on their face to avoid inhaling a spray-on sunscreen and ensure more thorough protection. Combining a face lotion, hooded sun shirt and spray-on sunscreen is a good way to keep protected. Neutrogena’s Ultra Sheer Dry Touch applies without feeling greasy on your skin.
The Burn: Lotion can feel a little goopy compared to a spray-on and is harder to apply over your entire body. It also needs to be reapplied every 80 minutes or so.
Price: $11.99; neutrogena.com
