Sun Protection While Kayaking

Whether you are paddling across a lake, the sea or along a whitewater course proper sun protection while kayaking is essential. And many kayakers are concerned about sunscreen products which have no or low impact on the environment.

Tips for Sun Protection While Kayaking

• Sunscreen is the primary way to protect yourself from the sun
• Use SPF 30 sunscreen or more, even on cloudy days
• Reapply sunscreen every 3 or 4 hours, and apply lots
• Do not forget to apply the sunscreen lotion to your ears because you will be changing direction on the water often leaving them exposed
• Also consider using a syray for more complete coverage
• Sun protection clothes are available to protect you from the harmful UVA-UVB rays. Wide brim sun protection hats and lightweight long sleeve shirts are worn by many kayakers.

Kayakers concerned about the environment often turn to organic sunscreen, although the benefits will vary from brand to brand.

Consider if purchasing Organic Sunscreen

Packaging – are the organic sunscreen bottles recyclable and include vegetable ink on the packaging.

Biodegradable – many sunscreens contain ingredients harmful to the environment. After applying sunscreen you may be going for a swim in the lake or river whether intentional or not. If your sunscreen is biodegradable and breaks down naturally it will be eco-friendly and a big help to the environment.

An organic product – contains ingredients that are grown organically and processed without the use of synthetic chemicals, pesticides or herbicides. Also they do not contain any genetically modified organisms.

Certified organic products – meanwhile these are organic sunscreen products which have been certified by an independent agency by having a set percentage of certified organic ingredients (generally greater than 95%). Some agencies include the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (Canadian Organic Regime; USDA (US Department of Agriculture); and IFOAM (International Federation of Organic Agriculture).

In particular avoid sunscreens which contain paraben, benzophenone, cinnamate and 4-methyl-benzylidene camphor. Do look for sunscreens containing contains zinc oxide or titanium dioxide.

For sun protection while kayaking look for UVA-UVB protection, high water resistance and sunscreen that is great for children and adults with any type you buy, organic or not. One great sun protection product that also works for fair skinned people is Badger SPF 30 Sunscreen For Face & Body 2.9 oz (87 ml).

Be sure to check our some the great inflatable kayaks on this site to get started. Sun protection while kayaking should be part of your essential gear for the outdoors any time of the year.