While on the subject of cycling clothing, I should mention that the very first thing I put on even before a stitch of clothing, is a generous amount of sunscreen. Although I’m the type of person who tans easily and I rarely get a sunburn, it’s a ritual for me to apply SPF 90 sunscreen each morning before dressing while I’m cycle touring.
I make applying sunscreen the very first item of my daily agenda not only so I wouldn’t forget it, but also so I won’t miss some of the riskier spots for me getting sunburn. Since I am a balding man, I start at the top of my head and work down.
That said, my nastiest sunburn while touring was when I missed applying sunscreen to the top of my ears. Another problem area for me is when my sleeves and shorts ride up and I get a wicked sunburn line around my legs and arms on those areas normally not exposed to the sun.
The sun can be deadly, so don’t forget the sunscreen!
Ken Whittaker
Updated April 17, 2018