Justin Thomas Launches WearSPF After Skin Cancer Scare, Emphasizes Sun Protection for Athletes
PGA Tour golfer Justin Thomas unveiled his sunscreen brand, WearSPF, following a 2018 skin cancer diagnosis, according to a 2023 interview with *Men’s Health*. The 30-year-old, who has won multiple PGA Tour titles, including the 2022 PGA Championship, said the experience “was a real wake-up call” to prioritize sun protection.
Thomas’s decision to create WearSPF stemmed from his frustration with existing sunscreen options. “You’d be surprised how many of the popular brands use [Butyloctyl Salicylate] and many other harmful ingredients,” he said. The brand, launched in 2021, offers chemical and mineral formulas in cream, spray, and stick formats, all priced under $20. Each product is labeled as sweat- and water-resistant for 80 minutes and free from fragrances, according to the company’s website.
How Justin Thomas’s Skin Cancer Scare Led to WearSPF
In 2018, Thomas’s dermatologist discovered a suspicious mole on his leg during a routine checkup. The lesion was removed, and early detection prevented a more severe outcome. “Knowing how close I was to a life-threatening situation was a real wake-up call for me,” Thomas told *Men’s Health*.
The golfer emphasized the importance of regular skin checks, urging others to “wear sunscreen and go get your annual skin check.” WearSPF’s development was driven by his desire to provide an affordable, effective alternative. “Sunscreen is for everyone,” he said. “The most important part is making sure that everyone is wearing sunscreen and reapplying on the course or wherever they are.”
WearSPF’s Product Line and Features
WearSPF offers a range of sunscreens tailored to active lifestyles. Key products include the Mineral Sport Stick SPF 30, Performance Sunscreen Spray SPF 50, and Essential Sunscreen SPF 50. All formulas are designed to be lightweight, fast-absorbing, and suitable for sensitive skin.
Thomas described the Mineral Sport Stick as “portable, pocket-friendly, and perfect for an active, on-the-go lifestyle.” He also highlighted the brand’s commitment to accessibility, noting that “there’s no excuse not to wear SPF” due to the variety of product types. The golfer’s own routine includes applying the Performance Sunscreen Spray before play and reapplying with the Sport Stick at key intervals.
Why Sun Protection Matters for Athletes
Thomas argues that sunscreen is as essential as athletic gear. “A sunburn has severe negative impacts on your body, including recovery, dehydration, inflammation, and fatigue,” he said. “So if you want to play at peak performance, sunscreen is a form of protection the same way your helmet or shin guards are.”
Research supports this view. The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) states that UV exposure increases skin cancer risk and recommends daily sunscreen use, even on cloudy days. For athletes, prolonged outdoor activity heightens this risk, making consistent protection critical.
FAQ: WearSPF and Sun Protection for Athletes
What makes WearSPF different from other sunscreens?
WearSPF prioritizes affordability, with products under $20, and offers multiple formats (spray, stick, cream) to suit different preferences. The brand avoids ingredients like parabens and oxybenzone, though specific formulations may vary.
How often should sunscreen be reapplied during a golf round?
The CDC recommends reapplying every two hours, or immediately after swimming or sweating. Thomas reapply at the seventh and 14th tees during tournaments.
Is WearSPF suitable for sensitive skin?
Yes, according to the company. All products are labeled as “safe for sensitive skin,” and the mineral formulas avoid common irritants like fragrances and chemical filters.
As of 20