Golfers spend hours outdoors, often in the middle of the day, on open courses with little shade. That adds up to a lot of sun exposure over a lifetime, and ultraviolet (UV) radiation is a major cause of skin damage and skin cancer. The good news is that protecting yourself is simple, and it doesn't have to affect your game. Here's how to look after your skin and eyes on the golf course.
This article is general information. If you have concerns about your skin, talk to a doctor or dermatologist.
Why golfers need sun protection
- Long exposure: a round of golf lasts four to five hours.
- Peak hours: many rounds are played when UV is strongest, typically around the middle of the day.
- Reflection: water, sand and pale surfaces reflect UV.
- Altitude and latitude: UV is stronger at high altitude and closer to the equator.
- Commonly missed areas: ears, the back of the neck, the backs of hands, the scalp and the lips.
Sunscreen
What to choose
- Broad-spectrum: protects against both UVA and UVB.
- High SPF: many health organisations recommend SPF 30 or higher for outdoor activities.
- Water- and sweat-resistant formulas for golf.
- Non-greasy on the hands and face, so it doesn't affect your grip or run into your eyes.
- Stick or gel formats are handy for the face and the backs of hands.
In some places, such as Hawaii, the sale of certain sunscreen ingredients is restricted to protect coral reefs. Read golf in Hawaii.
How to apply
- Apply 15 to 30 minutes before you go out, so it can start working.
- Use enough: most people apply too little. Cover all exposed skin generously.
- Don't forget: ears, neck, scalp (if thinning or exposed), nose, the backs of hands and the legs if wearing shorts.
- Reapply every two hours, or more often if sweating heavily. The turn after nine holes is a good reminder.
- Wipe your palms after applying, or use a stick, so your grip stays dry.
Hats
| Hat | Protection |
|---|---|
| Wide-brimmed or bucket hat | Best: shades face, ears and neck |
| Cap | Shades the face but not the ears or neck |
| Visor | Shades the face but leaves the scalp exposed |
If you wear a cap, apply extra sunscreen to the ears and neck, or add a neck flap.
Clothing
- Long sleeves and trousers in light, breathable fabrics offer good protection.
- UPF-rated clothing (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) shows how much UV the fabric blocks.
- Sun sleeves can be worn with short-sleeved shirts.
- Dark or tightly woven fabrics block more UV, but can be hotter.
Read what to wear on the golf course and hot weather golf.
Eyes and lips
- Sunglasses that block 100% of UVA and UVB protect your eyes. Read our golf sunglasses guide.
- Lip balm with SPF: lips burn easily and are often forgotten.
Other habits
- Seek shade while waiting on tees.
- Use an umbrella for shade on very sunny days.
- Check the UV index in the weather forecast.
- Play early or late on very hot, sunny days.
- Protect children: young skin burns easily. Read getting kids into golf.
Check your skin
Golfers should know their skin and look out for changes.
- Check regularly for new spots or moles, or changes in size, shape, colour or texture.
- Watch for sores that don't heal, scaly patches, and spots that itch or bleed.
- Ask someone to check areas you can't see, such as your back and scalp.
- See a doctor promptly about anything new or changing.
Frequently asked questions
What SPF should golfers use?
Many health organisations recommend a broad-spectrum sunscreen of at least SPF 30 for prolonged outdoor activity.
How often should I reapply sunscreen on the golf course?
Every two hours, or more often if sweating heavily. Reapplying at the turn is a good habit.
Will sunscreen affect my grip?
Not if you use a non-greasy formula, apply it to the backs of your hands only and wipe your palms.
Do I need sunscreen on cloudy days?
Yes. UV can be strong even when it's cloudy or cool.
The bottom line
Protecting your skin is one of the most important things you can do as a golfer. Use a high-SPF broad-spectrum sunscreen and reapply it at the turn, wear a hat and protective clothing, protect your eyes and lips, and check your skin regularly. It takes a few minutes and protects you for a lifetime of golf. For more on staying healthy, read is golf good exercise?