What To Put On Sunburn While Cycling: 4 Factors [Must Know]

Sunburn is painful and can have long-term complications, such as premature aging and skin cancer. A higher risk of skin cancer, particularly melanoma, is higher among cyclists who spend hours on the road without proper sun protection.

Moisturize the affected area with non-dyed, non-perfumed lotions. You should also reapply sunscreen during your ride to protect your skin from the sun. Cover all exposed skin areas, including the backs of your hands and thighs.

we will delve into a comprehensive guide on what to put on sunburn while cycling and what to rely on when a sunburn occurs.

What To Put On Sunburn While Cycling: 4 Factors

Cycling under the sun can sometimes lead to uncomfortable and harmful sunburns. If you are dealing with sunburn while cycling, knowing the best ways to treat it and prevent further damage is essential. Here are four key factors to consider:

Sunscreen Basics

Protect your skin with sunscreen while cycling, especially when exposed to the sun for long periods. Here’s why it’s important and how to choose and use sunscreen effectively:

Benefits of Sunscreen

• Prevents Sunburn: Sunscreen protects your skin from harmful UV rays that can cause painful sunburn when cycling.
• Reduces Skin Cancer Risk: Regular sunscreen use can lower your risk of developing skin cancer.
• Prevents Premature Aging: Sunscreen helps keep your skin looking young by preventing wrinkles and sunspots.

Choosing the Right Sunscreen

• SPF 30 or Higher: Choose a sunscreen with at least SPF 30. This provides sufficient protection for most people.
• Broad-Spectrum Protection: Look for a product labeled broad-spectrum, which protects against UVA and UVB rays.
• Water-Resistant Formula: Opt for water-resistant sunscreen if you expect to sweat or get wet. This ensures the sunscreen stays effective.

Applying Sunscreen Effectively

• Before Your Ride: Apply sunscreen at least 15 minutes before cycling. Your skin will absorb the sunscreen if you do this.
• During Your Ride: Reapply sunscreen every two hours, especially if you’re sweating or riding in the sun for an extended period. Consider using a spray or stick for easy application while on the go.

Protective Clothing

Choosing the proper clothing is crucial for sun protection while cycling. Here’s how to make smart clothing choices to keep your skin safe:

Appropriate Clothing Choices

• Lightweight Fabrics: Opt for lightweight, breathable fabrics that offer UV protection. Materials like polyester and nylon are often designed to block UV rays.
• Long Sleeves and Pants: Wear long-sleeved clothing and long pants to cover as much skin as possible. This helps reduce your exposure to harmful UV rays.

Importance of Covering Exposed Skin

• Protects Sensitive Areas: Areas like your arms, legs, and neck are often exposed and more vulnerable to sunburn. Covering these areas minimizes direct sun exposure.
• Reduces Risk of Skin Damage: Regularly covering exposed skin helps prevent sunburn and long-term damage, such as skin cancer and premature aging.

Cycling-Specific Clothing Options

• Arm Sleeves: Arm sleeves are an excellent choice for sun protection. They are lightweight and breathable, making them ideal for cycling.
• Leg Warmers: These provide coverage for your legs, offering sun protection without sacrificing comfort during your ride.
• Cycling Jerseys: Many cycling jerseys are made from fabrics with built-in UV protection, offering an extra layer of defense against the sun.

Hydration and Timing

Proper hydration and choosing the right times to ride are crucial for sunburn prevention while cycling. Here’s how they play a role:

Preventing sunburn with hydration

• Maintains Skin Health: Staying hydrated keeps your skin healthy and more resilient against sun damage. Well-hydrated skin is less likely to dry out and burn.
• Regulates Body Temperature: Drinking enough fluids helps regulate your body temperature, reducing the risk of overheating and sunburn.
• Supports Recovery: Proper hydration aids in faster recovery if your skin gets sunburned, helping to soothe and heal damaged areas more effectively.

Riding During Less Intense Sun Hours

• Early Morning Rides: Cycling early in the morning, before 10 a.m., often means lower UV intensity. This is an excellent time to enjoy a ride with less risk of sunburn.
• Late Afternoon Rides: Similarly, riding after 4 p.m. helps avoid the peak UV rays, which are strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. This timing reduces your exposure and helps keep your skin safer.

Expert Tips and Product Recommendations

For effective sunburn prevention while cycling, consider these expert tips and recommended products to enhance your sun protection strategy:

• Use Sunscreen Generously: Experts recommend applying sunscreen liberally and evenly on all exposed skin. Don’t forget areas like your ears, the back of your neck, and the tops of your feet.
• Reapply Frequently: Apply sunscreen every two hours or after sweating or swimming to ensure continuous protection throughout your ride.

Recommended Products

• Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Sunscreen SPF 50: Offers high SPF protection and withstands sweat and water, making it ideal for long rides.
• Coconut Oil: A natural moisturizer, coconut oil can help soothe and hydrate sunburned skin. Apply it gently to the affected areas to reduce redness and promote healing.
• Coppertone Sport Sunscreen SPF 30: Provides robust sun protection and is water-resistant, ensuring it stays on even during intense activities.
• Aloe Vera Gel: The plant Aloe vera contains soothing and healing properties. To reduce pain, redness, and inflammation, apply aloe vera gel generously to the sunburned area to reduce discomfort. You should look for an aloe vera gel without added fragrances or alcohol.
• Hydrocortisone Cream: It helps reduce inflammation and itching when applied over-the-counter. To ease discomfort, use it as directed on sunburned areas.

UV-Protective Clothing

• Pearl Izumi UV Arm Sleeves: These arm sleeves offer excellent UV protection and are made from breathable materials to keep you comfortable.
• Castelli UPF 50+ Cycling Jersey: This jersey provides built-in UV protection and is designed for high performance, combining sun safety with cycling comfort.

Conclusion

Sunburn can be a real downer on your cycling adventures, but with the suitable precautions, it’s avoidable. From slathering on that SPF 30+ sunscreen wearing UV-protective clothing to stay hydrated, and timing your rides wisely, there are plenty of ways to keep your skin safe.

So, gear up, protect yourself, and enjoy the ride without worrying about sunburn. Remember, a little preparation can go a long way in keeping your skin healthy while you conquer those miles under the sun.