Why Golfers Are at Risk for Skin Cancer

A typical round of golf lasts 4-6 hours, often between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., when UV rays are at their strongest. Combine that with wind exposure and minimal shade on most courses, and you have a recipe for skin damage. Areas like the scalp, neck, ears, and face are particularly vulnerable, even for those wearing hats or visors.

Contributing factors include:

• Decreasing Ozone Layer: The ozone layer, which acts as a shield against UV radiation, has thinned, allowing more harmful rays to reach the earth.
• Year-Round Exposure: Even during cooler months or on cloudy days, up to 85% of UV rays penetrate through clouds, making sunscreen and UV protection a necessity year-round.
• Cumulative Sun Exposure: Frequent golfers are exposed to the sun repeatedly, leading to cumulative damage over time.

The Serious Consequences of Sun Exposure on the Golf Course

1. Skin Cancer Risks:

   • One person dies every hour from malignant melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer.
   • Non-melanoma skin cancers like basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma are also common among golfers due to chronic sun exposure.

2. Premature Aging:

   • UV damage accelerates the appearance of wrinkles, sunspots, and sagging skin, particularly around the eyes.

3. Eye Damage:

   • Prolonged sun exposure increases the risk of cataracts and other eye conditions, making sunglasses an essential part of your golf gear.

How to Stay Protected on the Golf Course

1. Use Broad-Spectrum Sunscreen

Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher to protect against both UVA and UVB rays. Apply it to all exposed skin, including your neck, ears, and the back of your hands, and reapply every two hours. BÜ sunscreen sprays are easy to apply, and more importantly, reapply, without getting on your golf club grips.

2. Wear Protective Headwear

Wide-brim hats, like those popularized by golfing legends Sam Snead and Greg Norman, offer excellent protection for the face, ears, and neck. Even visors and caps, like those frequently worn by Tiger Woods, provide a layer of defense, especially when paired with sunscreen.

3. Invest in UV-Protective Apparel

Many brands now offer UV-blocking shirts, pants, and gloves designed to keep you cool and protected while playing. Look for UPF-rated clothing for maximum defense against harmful rays.

4. Protect Your Eyes

Wear sunglasses with 100% UV protection to shield your eyes from sun damage. This can also reduce glare, helping your performance on the course.

5. Avoid Peak Sun Hours

Whenever possible, schedule your tee time earlier in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid the most intense UV exposure.

6. Stay Hydrated and Monitor Your Skin

Dehydration can exacerbate the effects of sun exposure. Drink plenty of water throughout your game and regularly check your skin for new or changing moles, spots, or lesions.

Golf Pros Take Sun Protection Seriously

Golf professionals know the importance of sun safety, treating UV protection as an essential part of their game strategy. Hats, visors, and sunscreen aren’t just about comfort—they’re about performance and long-term health.

Sam Snead and Greg Norman popularized wide-brim hats, while other pros, like Tiger Woods, consistently wear caps to shield themselves from the sun. Many agree that sun protection offers not only a competitive edge but also peace of mind, ensuring their skin stays healthy for years to come.

The Bottom Line: Protect Your Skin Year-Round

Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or just starting out, sun protection is a must. The risk of skin cancer, premature aging, and eye damage is real, but with the right precautions, you can enjoy the game safely.

Remember, the sun’s rays are powerful year-round—even in cooler months or cloudy weather. By incorporating sunscreen, protective gear, and smart habits into your routine, you can stay safe while enjoying the sport you love.