When it comes to skin care, people take vastly different approaches. Some invest hours each week in elaborate routines, while others simply go with the flow. Yet, protecting your skin doesn’t require the latest skinfluencer trends or viral skincare hacks—it can be distilled into two essential steps: sun protection and hydration. And no matter where you fall on the spectrum, taking basic precautions to care for your skin is crucial.
Before you continue reading, consider this your reminder to schedule a check-up with your dermatologist. Skin cancer, the most common form of cancer worldwide, is preventable, yet it affects many, including veteran surfers who have undergone biopsies and surgeries. For those who spend long hours under the sun, like Kelly Slater, skin protection is a top priority. Alongside a team of dermatologists and researchers, Slater has developed Freaks of Nature (FoN), a groundbreaking line of performance sunscreen and hydration serum designed to protect skin while allowing surfers and outdoor enthusiasts to stay active under the sun.
A Surfer’s Personal Commitment to Skin Health
Slater, a living legend in the surfing world, has spent countless hours in the water. Growing up, he didn’t think much about sun protection—believing that his darker skin offered some level of immunity. However, over the years, he learned that no one is truly immune to the harmful effects of the sun.
“Growing up surfing, I’ve spent endless hours in the water without thinking much about sun protection,” Slater explained. “I’ve got dark skin, so I felt somewhat immune. But I know now that hasn’t stopped me from taking on some level of sun damage. I want to protect my skin and trust what I’m putting on my body.”
Slater’s goal with Freaks of Nature was to create a sunscreen that not only shields the skin but does so with clean, mineral-based ingredients. The result is a formula that’s marine-safe, free from endocrine disruptors, and high-performing in extreme conditions—without the potential health risks posed by chemicals often found in mainstream products.
The Importance of Skin Care for Outdoor Athletes
Skin is more than just a protective covering—it’s our first line of defense against environmental elements and the most exposed part of our body. Factors such as where we live, our daily activities, and even our genetic makeup all influence our skin’s health. For surfers, prolonged sun exposure is inevitable, making skin care even more essential.
As awareness about harmful chemicals in everyday products grows, consumers are becoming more discerning about the ingredients in their skincare products, much like they are with food. Unfortunately, many well-known brands still use outdated formulas that may not be ideal for long-term skin health. That’s where Freaks of Nature sets itself apart.
Dr. Elsa Jungman, a dermatologist on the Freaks of Nature team, shared how the brand’s products are different. “FoN stands out with its ‘Freak Barrier Defense System™’ and a proprietary formulation specifically designed for outdoor athletes,” she said. “We’ve used cutting-edge ingredients to develop a sunscreen that goes beyond traditional chemical filters, which can disrupt the skin barrier.”
Rising Concerns Over Chemical Sunscreens
The rise of Freaks of Nature comes at a time when sunscreen use itself is being called into question. A landmark study published by the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) raised alarms over the potential health risks of certain sunscreen ingredients, such as avobenzone, oxybenzone, and octocrylene. These chemicals, the study revealed, can reach dangerous levels in the bloodstream after just one application, sparking concern among consumers about long-term health effects.
Despite these concerns, dermatologists still stress the importance of sunscreen in preventing skin cancer, the most common cancer in the U.S. In fact, one in five Americans will develop skin cancer by the time they turn 70. As Dr. Jungman emphasized, sunscreen remains a crucial tool for protecting against the harmful effects of UV radiation.
The Trust Factor: Why FoN Is the Right Choice
With so many sunscreen options on the market, choosing the right one can be overwhelming. However, for those who trust Kelly Slater and his team, the decision is easy. Freaks of Nature isn’t just another sunscreen—it’s a product developed by people who understand the unique needs of outdoor athletes, particularly surfers.
Slater himself has stated, “Freaks of Nature was created with simple, bio-based ingredients that channel nature and work to protect and strengthen your skin barrier while you sweat. This is for people like me who spend their lives outdoors and want something reliable. Now, I’ve got a product I trust and use every day, and I’m proud to share it with others.”
The Bottom Line: Skin Protection for a Lifetime of Surfing
If Freaks of Nature is good enough for Kelly Slater, one of the greatest surfers of all time, it’s certainly worth considering for anyone who spends time outdoors. The brand’s simple message resonates: sun protection and skin hydration are non-negotiable for anyone who wants to protect their skin while enjoying the surf, sun, and outdoors.
So, whether you’re catching waves or just soaking up the sun, remember that protecting your skin doesn’t have to be complicated—it can start with two steps: sun protection and hydration. And with Freaks of Nature, you can trust that you’re using a product designed for peak performance and ultimate skin protection.
Related topics
- Patrick Lefevere’s Cycling Legacy
- Joe Blackmore Reflects on 2024 Success and Future Ambitions
- The Joy of Cycling-Themed Christmas Gifts