There's something about fun under the sun

MANILA, Philippines - As a California surfer, I spent most of my days surfing in a 3mm rubber wetsuit. This “superhero” suit shielded me from the cold. With only the hands and face exposed, my surfer friends and I would diligently apply the best waterproof sun block to our face.  We did this all winter, simply counting the days until summer, when we could finally shed the suit, and wear only board-shorts. This time, the use of sun protection spread over our entire body was not an afterthought, but a necessity.  When you are born of a beach culture, sun block is almost second nature.

The beach is one place that pressures you to look your best.  Casual beach goers often forget the worthiness of sun care and suffer the ill effects of excessive sun exposure. Before any trip to the beach, girls (and some guys, from what I’ve seen) find the need for that last- minute waxing or pedicure to complement their latest swimsuit, but often neglect the most important must-do, protecting their skin from the sun.  I’ve since moved here from Huntington Beach in California, and while surfing local beaches, as a surfer-doctor, I’ve noticed that local residents don’t always prioritize sun protection when it’s needed the most.

To avoid the “splotchy” tan, or that painful peeling sunburn, it’s always best to tan evenly.  This occurs with greater success when it’s done gradually.  A surefire guarantee for that radiant glow is to use suncare products that suit your lifestyle, and use them often.  The products should be non-greasy and you have to be aware of the sun block’s SPF(Sun Protection Factor) so as to maximize your fun time under the sun.

Our proximity to the equator all the more makes the need for sun protection a necessity.  The latent effects of sun damage mean that you must take precautions now to avoid paying the price later with prematurely aged skin. Magda, the neurotic over-baked neighbor from There’s Something About Mary, comes to mind.

Boracay beach goers recently had fun under the sun when the Sun Village Central was transformed into a Nivea Wellness Center. It was the perfect place to reinvigorate the senses.

At the center, bronzed beauties demonstrated the need for sun protection. Visitors got a chance to experience the best suncare products for the entire family, along with expert massage therapy in cabanas and lessons in Zips, an adaption of the fire dance known as Poi, originated by the Maori of New Zealand.

With flawlessly protected skin, Manette Mercado, Karina Cabiling, and Fabio Ide livened the center by dancing and inviting everyone to join.  Visitors sampled various suncare products and learned about the importance of adequate skin care. 

What’s the point of donning a VIX bikini, only to have your golden tan marred by that unflattering opaque film? Nivea Sun Invisible protection transparent spray avoids the unsightly white marks and allows your natural golden hue to radiate. For the young ones, the Nivea Sun Kids Swim & Play keeps up with your child’s rigorous water activity.

 At day’s end, we sipped beachfront cocktails and witnessed Boracay’s glorious sunset. We got the evenings started with a Mongolian meal fit for a “Khan.” One of the best dinner options, Sun Village Central’s all-you-can-eat Mongolian buffet, had us returning for more.

Of course we returned. And to Bora, we shall always return.