Part of having a great surf session is setting myself up for success both before and after I get in the water. For me, the easiest way to do this is with a dedicated surf back pack that lives by the door. Over the years I’ve fine tuned the products I need to prep both my body and board, and to help me transition to a cheeky glass of wine apres surf.
Apres surf is woefully underrated, by the way.
Sunscreen Essentials for Surfers
Water-Resistant Facial Sunscreen
The #1 most important thing in my surf bag! I love the Freak of Nature sunscreen (designed by Kelly Slater). It’s lightweight, reef-safe, and doesn’t clog my acne-prone skin. Plus, no white cast! If you only have one SPF product in your surf bag, this should be it.
Body Sunscreen
For bikini or spring suit days, I like Alba Botanica reef-safe sunscreen. Pro tip is to put it on at home before you drive to the break so you’re not sliding around on your board.
Lip Balm with SPF
I’ve been burned (literally) by not protecting my lips out on the water. Now I always keep an SPF 30 or more lip balm in my bag, like this one from Sun Bum.
Surf Gear & Board Essentials
Surf Wax
I’m usually a sticky bumps girlie becaues it’s available everywhere, but Kassia Meador’s Palo Santo scented surf wax is a special treat, especially when I’m doing a rewax. The scent is amazing and the triangle shape means you always have a corner.
Wax Comb
A lifesaver when you’re overdue for a rewax, and therefore, a lazy surfer essential. Throw one in your bag so your board is always grippy.
Body Glide
Another bikini or spring suit lifesaver. I don’t usually have a problem but if I’m surfing in a ‘kini several days in a row body glide is a life saver. This is a must have for my sensitivie skin girlies and warm weather surf trips.
Après Surf Beauty Essentials
Hair Mask & Wide-Tooth Comb
I have a whole article on my pre-post-surf hair routine, but at minimum combing a hydrating mask after surfing is a must for keeping hair hydrated.
More SPF (But Glittery)
For a beach hang après surf, I love the Kopari Sheer Body Mist SPF. It goes on easy adds a little golden glow that makes reapplying sunscreen less of a chore.
Facial Oil
After rinsing off I finish with a few drops of lighweight moisturizing facial oil to restore glow and hydration. You should choose one based on your skin time but this one works for me.
English