Sun Protection
The not-so secret women golfers know that would help men play better, longer
Attention, gentlemen: with rising temperatures and longer days, this PSA is especially crucial for you. A recent study conducted by the American Academy of Dermatology found a significant discrepancy in sun-protection education between men and women surveyed, a pattern that could help to explain the rising cases of melanoma, the most-serious form of skin cancer, in men. Athletes and outdoors-lovers are especially at risk due to harmful UV exposure, particularly during the hours of 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., when the sun’s angle is at its most intense.
For example, only half of men surveyed knew that a “base tan” does not protect you from re-exposure, and that there is no such thing as a safe tan—any kind of discoloration is skin damage and increases your risk for developing skin cancers. (For comparison, three out of four women surveyed knew both of these life-altering facts.) Similarly, only one out of every two male participants knew that skin cancer can even develop in areas not as routinely exposed to sun. Which goes to show you that preventative measures, including properly-applied sunscreen, sun shirts, hats, and sunglasses, are all part of a healthy, sustainable, holistic approach to staying safe in the sun in addition to drinking plenty of fluids and limiting peak time exposure (hello early evening tee times!).
To help you protect yourself and the ones you love, we’ve rounded up some easy, practical solutions to sun safety to add to your routine, now.
Brickell Men's Element Defense SPF45 Moisturizer for Men
For the men who don’t have a sunscreen (or skin care) routine, this sleek onyx packaging is a great option. It’s an easy, anti-aging lightweight vitamin Emoisturizer that happens to have SPF45 in it. Simply put a dime-sized amount on your face and ears in the morning or before a round of golf.
Vacation Super Spritz SPF 50 Sunscreen Face Mist + Air Freshener Bundle
If it’s the old-school, dreaded goopy, oily feeling that has you hesitant to add sunscreen to your daily routine, this spray is an easily-packed, no fuss option. Plus, it comes with a snazzy air freshener, and you’ll impress all your friends by owning this buzzy, talk-of-the-town cool brand
Coppertone SPORT Sunscreen SPF 50 Lotion, Water Resistant Sunscreen
We get it, it’s hot out! But “I’ll just sweat it out” is no excuse for not applying sufficient sun lotion. This silky cream is formulated for intensity and can withstand whatever combination of sweat, water hazards, or sand you might throw at it. Just make sure to apply every hour or hour and a half.
Sun Bum Mineral SPF 50 Sunscreen Face Stick
Sunscreen sticks are a great tool to have in the bag during summer golf round to make reapplying easier. This mineral face stick from Sun Bum has SPF 50 protection with no chemicals and a barely-there feel.
Oars + Alps Hydrating SPF 50 Sunscreen Spray
This hydrating spray from Oars + Alps not only protects skin from harmful UV rays, it also nourishes it with vitamin C. It's a non-greasy formula that is sweat-resistant for up to 80 minutes, but we recommend reapplying more frequently to be safe.
Perricone MD Vitamin C Ester Photo Brightening Moisturizer Broad Spectrum SPF 30
In addition to providing daily defense against sun damage, the minerals infused in this fragrance-free cream work to tighten, brighten and protect delicate skin cells (read: reduce signs of aging)—now ready to be a part of your skincare routine at less than the full-price ticket.
Neutrogena Sheer Zinc Oxide Dry-Touch Face Sunscreen
Hawaiian Tropic Sheer Touch Lotion Sunscreen SPF 30
Jack Black Intense Therapy Lip Balm
Because your lips are skin, too. This natural mint and shea butter balm has green tea to offer cooling and healing properties, which will keep your lips smiling in the sun, wind and extreme temperatures. There’s three in the pack, so you can keep one in every nook and cranny of your golf bag.
BALEAF Men's Sun Protection Shirts
Sun protection shirts are not a new idea, but they have become more and more popular for golfers looking for extra coverage from harmful UV rays. This top from Baleaf offers UPF 50+ protection, is made with a lightweight, wicking fabric, and come in a ton of colors to match any look.
More Sun Protection Shirts To Consider
Titleist Men's Tour Aussie Golf Hat
Hats with extended brims extend sun protection to include the bottom half of the face, ears and parts of the neck—a necessity for golfers out in the sun for hours at a time. Keep an eye out for end-of-summer deals to pick up a classic bucket or try out a new visor or fishing-inspired style.
More to consider
Tifosi Men’s Swick Sport Sunglasses
August is a great time to save on sunglasses, both for the golf course and for your everyday use. Plus, Amazon's easy returns system makes it possible to try on a few pairs of glasses and return the ones that suit your face and style. Check out these modern and sporty options from Oakley, Costa Del Mar, Ray-Ban and more.
More to consider
Burt's Bees After Sun Lotion with Hydrating Aloe Vera & Coconut Oil
We should all aim to be that person on your buddy’s trip with the hook-up for the after-sun. This coconut and aloe-infused lotion works to soothe damaged skin and ease any UV-related burns. It’s also typically included in Prime Day sales, so stock up, apply liberally and pass it to your golf partners.
Eau Thermale Avene Facial Mist
Ideal for sensitive skin, this antioxidant-rich fine mist comes in a slim bottle that’s perfect for tossing into your game bag. The French spritz soothes skin irritated from sun and sweat, and it’s easily shared so you’ll win friends on the course (and look refreshed when you hit the club for a post-game drink).
Farmacy Green Defense SPF30
You’ll rival the course in being a force of nature with this plant-packed, science-backed sunscreen. It’s made from a cocktail of naturally-derived ingredients, including marigold and black chokeberry, that evens skin tone and protects your cells from harsh lights, including those emitted from your smartphone.
Julep No Excuses Clear Facial Sunscreen Broad-Spectrum SPF 40
This lightweight, gel sunscreen doesn't just smell great, it is also good for your skin—and is crafted with the planet in mind. The cruelty-free, coral reef-safe formula is made with Oxalis triangularis, aka the “Jeju Island Love Plant,” and vitamin E to protect your skin from environmental damage.
R+Co Sun Catcher Power C Boosting Leave-In Conditioner
Attention, hat people (and all people): Spritz this pro-favorite product all over your hair for hydration and UV-protection. It’s eco-conscious and made in the USA, and smells refreshingly woodsy.