Rash Guards Can Also Protect Skin in the Sun

Although I'm a person who loves the beach and the sun, I'd never heard of a rash guard before yesterday.

Like it sounds, a rash guard (also known as a surf shirt, rashguard, or rashie) is a nylon lycra shirt that is made to be worn in the water to protect your skin from rashes. It fits skin tight so it stays put, and doesn't float up while you're busy surfing or bodyboarding.

If you take part in these, or any other water sports, you don't need me to tell you that your skin constantly hits the board or the water, and this, combined with salt and sand can produce painful rubs, burns, or rashes on your skin. Since we're all about good skin care, a rashie would be a wise investment in your skin's health and protection during these kinds of water sports.

Rash guards often provide a high SPF rating (often 45-50+), so they are a wise choice for skin protection if you're out in the sun all day. Remember, the reflection of the sun off water can rapidly burn your skin, so it's very smart to take extra sun precautions when you're playing or sporting in the water.

[tag-ice]Rash guards[/tag-ice] come in all sizes, and with short or long sleeves. They can be purchased for men, women, or children, and can protect your swimsuit from being raggedy and torn due to constant rubbing against your bodyboard or surfboard.

If you'd like to be stylish in your rash guard, be sure to get a few, and make sure they match your swimsuits.

For your kids, consider rashguards in bright or neon colors, so you can easily find them in the water or on the beach. Bright colors may also be good for new surfers or body boarders, as you can be easily tracked and found if you wipe out.

Rash guards are best for the beach or non-cholorinated water, as chlorine will eat through nylon and will ruin your rashie long before it wears out.

Be sure to try on your rashguard before purchasing; this will give you the best fit.

If you don't like the messiness of sunscreens, but you want full protection against the sun, and board-burn, consider investing in a rash guard. Your skin will thank you.