Re: [Paddlewise] Latex Gaskets & Sunscreen

> "Mark Arnold" <mjamja_at_earthlink.net> wrote:
>
> >> I am thinking of buying my first drytop with latex gaskets.  I am a
> prolific user of sun-screen when paddling.  I have heard some scary
stories
> about latex being "dissolved" by sunscreen.  Since my hands are one of
the
> main areas I want protected with sunscreen I am sure that no matter how
much
> I try I will get some on the gaskets [snip]
>

Dave Kruger wrote:
> snip <
> Explore brands of sunscreen which do not use oily materials as a
vehicle.
> Used to be brands which used an alcohol base to carry the sun-shielding
> materials to skin.  The alcohol then evaporated, leaving a thin film of
the
> sun shield.  Have not seen one of these in years.
>

The well-known Bull Frog brand of sunscreens is alcohol-based, as is the
"Lifeguard" product - see http://www.questproducts.com/faq.htm.   There
are no doubt others - which need to be identified by reading ingredient
statement and/or looking for the words 'gel' or 'clear' or 'non-greasy'
on the label.

It may be best to apply sunscreen of any type some 20-30 minutes before
putting on the drytop in order to minimize contact/absorption of
sunscreen components onto/into the latex material.

Also, Kokatat's web site recommends treating latex gaskets with 303
protectant.

Erik Sprenne
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