Sun Protection: A Surfer’s Guide to Healthy Skin in Nosara, Costa Rica
ENJOY THE SUN, PROTECT YOUR SKIN
Living in Nosara means a lot of time in the sun and ocean, and I wouldn’t want it any other way. But sun exposure is also one of the biggest contributors to premature aging, pigmentation and changes in the skin over time.
For me, it’s not about avoiding the sun. It’s about protecting our skin well so we can keep enjoying the ocean and the life we love.
CHOOSE YOUR SURF SPF
What we put on our skin before entering the ocean matters. At SĀGARA, we favor mineral sunscreens with zinc oxide for broad-spectrum protection that is gentle on skin and more mindful of our marine environment.
For surfing, choose a water-resistant SPF 30–50 and apply generously before paddling out. A little visible zinc is a trade-off we're happy to make for our skin and the ocean we love.
FREAKS OF NATURE PEAK PERFORMANCE SPF 50
Founded by 11x World Surf Champion Kelly Slater, Freaks of Nature is made for life in the water. This 100% mineral SPF 50 is lightweight, fragrance-free, water-resistant for up to 80 minutes, with minimal white cast.
PURA VIDA SUNBLOCK — OUR LOCAL PICK
Made in Costa Rica and made for our tropical environment, PURA VIDA Sunblock is the option for those who don't mind seeing their sun protection.
The consistency is thick and intentionally sits visibly on the skin. While it may not disappear like an everyday facial SPF, that's part of what we love about it for surfing—you can actually see where you've applied it and where you may need a little more coverage.
Apply generously before paddling out, paying extra attention to the nose, cheekbones, forehead and other areas that receive the most sun.
ADD A SURF HAT
For long sessions or those perfect days when the conditions stay offshore and you just don’t want to get out of the water, a surf hat is great added protection. The Nosara sun and midday heat are strong, so I love the extra shade for the face, scalp, ears and eyes. Pair it with a good mineral SPF and keep surfing.
SĀGARA TIP: The best surf sunscreen is the one you’ll apply generously and consistently. After days of sun your skin can feel depleted and dehydrated. A restorative facial in Nosara, rich in antioxidants and humectants, can help replenish and bring the skin back into balance.
