Where to get sun screen in bigger containers

[lindsay]

I have just had an appointment with a dermatologist who says I need better sun protection for the face if I REALLY insist on sailing full time in the Mediterranean where I have been permant liveaboard for 17 years. Having spent many of my youthful years on beaches I have been aware of sun damage - and have taken reasonable precautions - for more than 25 years, or so.

The recommendation "giving up sailing between the hours of 10am and 4 pm would be ideal", brought from me a polite explanation of reality. I do not want the be obliged to swallow the anchor on account of my aging skin.

Yes, I know about biminis and awnings, but the problem at sea is reflection from the water and deck, which gets in under that widebrimmed hat.

The problem is to find sunblock products that dont irritate the eyes, and the only ones I have found are in dainty little hand bag sizes which would cost a fortune to use on a permanent basis. Standard sun screens mixed with sweat are painfull. I have heard of non allergy products available in gallon (US) sizes in America but have not been to trace them

Any experiences? Of course the issue would be to transport the stuff by air, but that would be another problem

Thanks

 

[tri39]

Boots stock reasonable sizes, altho as you say they sell by the bucket in US and OZ.
Can a visitor bring some out for you?
Suncream doesn't cost as much as private skin surgery as I know all too well after 35 yrs summer sailing, the last 24 in the Med.
I have a bimini and wide brim hats, but still as you say you can still get it in the face.
Large sunglasses and a beard help. I also have canoeing peaked caps with side shields you can fasten in front of your face if nec.

 

[lindsay]

Your prompt reply stimulated me to immediate internet action. Yes, beards can reduce uv damage substantially and a trawl of protective canoe caps led me to ordering the ultra light sport cap from Coolibar Europe. Cost over 40 quid but if it does what it says on the can it will be worth it.....as you say.

Thanks for the input

 

[Bav34]

I use SunSense ultra 50+, made in Australia ... I get it on prescription ... 125 ml bottles, last for ages.

It clearly states to avoid eyes but that's just common sense.

What it DOESN'T do is irritate my eyes in the way that conventional sprays do even in the application stage.

 

[Gerry]

Got some spray on stuff in the USA, brand Neutrogena with a factor of 80 or 100. it's sprayed on, waterproof but pretty expensive. I have seen it in the UK. Found it to be really excellent, didn't make my eyes sore(the only one that doesn't), really stopped any burning and a little goes a very long way. We also wore sun protection clothing loose shirts and trousers from Colombia brand. Not a moments sunburn in the Tropical temperatures of 90 +.......

 

[TQA]

Try the vet. At least one make of udder cream for cows includes a UV protection agent. Comes by the gallon.

 

[Carmel2]

Could the dermatologist prescribe you some to be made up?

 

[tudorsailor]

I would recommend UltraSUn http://www.ultrasun.co.uk/products They do a 500ml with a push down dispenser like a soap dispenser. Apply once a day and that is that. Water resistant so does not need re-applying after a swim. I have used it in Carribean and in the Mediterranean summer. Not burnt. Very similar to P20 except that P20 does not have mega-bottle.

Boots at the airport often sell it

I fail to understand why visitors bother with the sprays and creams that smell and need constant re-application

TudorSailor

 

[lindsay]

Thanks to all for your inputs. Following along the advice that 'if something is worth doing, it is worth doing to excess', I have:

A. Already had delivered a less than fashionable canoe type hat with flaps from Coolibar europe.
B. Bought a handy battery operated beard trimmer, since facial hair can reduce uv 20 percent
C. Contacted ultrasun to check that they can arrange to send 500ml containers by mail abroad, avoiding the risk of confiscation on EasyJet.
D. Started to ponder how to get the stuff somehow or another
on prescription
E. Worked out how to improve my current awning/bimini set up
F. Put on hold the idea of finding a friendly dairy farmer

That should have me sorted. I can now relax over Xmas with family