Sunscreen?

[shakespear]

I got pretty burned up doing poolwork this weekend. Now that I think about it, can you really put sunscreen on your face? Will it bother the mask seal or the silicone?

 

[do it easy]

I'm not a chemist, but it might bother the mask and silicone. However, the mask is cheaper and easier to replace than dealing with sun burn or even skin cancer. Don't forget the back and shoulders if you're going to be in the pool for a while. Check the directions to see how waterproof it is and how often to re-apply.

 

[Splitlip]

I use Rocky Mountain Sunscreen. Absorbs quickly into skin and works fine on my face without impacting the seal and so far no adverse effect on the mask,

 

[Wildcard]

A hat does wonders too.

 

[Diveral]

I use Bullfrog. Use one of those gel types that do not leave a greasy residue.

 

[CrazyScuba]

Sunscreen messes up the silicone over extended periods of time, depending on what's in it. In some cases it can help the seal, but in my case it really makes it a lot worse. It almost makes it too slick on my face so it won't seat right. Any petroleum products will break down the silicone.

For your body can wear dive skin, rash guard or wetsuit. For you face you could wear a hat and try to minimize your sun exposure.

Good luck!
Britt :fish:
:fish:

 

[kirwoodd]

A hat is certainly a good idea, but its not enough, it doesnt stop the glare from the water. When I go diving a put on sunscreen first thing when I get to the boat, by the time I go diving there is no residue left over (at least none that I can detect). If I am wrong, and I have to buy a new mask over time... <shrug> its worth it.

 

[carlcz]

Try Ocean Potion, bought it at WalMart for about $5-6.00 (SPF 50 + Anti-aging stuff). Been using it fairly constantly and diving (~25 dives this summer), no problem with seals or silicone.

 

[sandshaker]

I use coppertone for kids

 

[TxHockeyGuy]

I also use bullfrog and after trying many different types of sunscreen can tell you it works better than anything else I've tried. Having the curse of Red hair I don't have any choice about wearing sunblock. My mask does seem to leak often but I don't think that has anything to do with the bullfrog. I should probably get a mask that doesn't leak, but hey, it gives me plenty of clearing practice.