After a brush with melanoma in his twenties, PGA Tour star Justin Thomas is now fighting skin cancer on a new front with his high-performance sunscreen brand, WearSPF, designed to protect athletes without sacrificing performance.
Key Takeaways
- PGA Tour golfer Justin Thomas was diagnosed with early-stage melanoma after discovering a small mole on his left calf, leading to surgery to remove all cancerous cells.
- Following his diagnosis, Thomas founded WearSPF, a high-performance sunscreen brand specifically designed for athletes that offers oxybenzone-free, water and sweat-resistant formulas.
- WearSPF products emphasize both protection and performance, with a focus on the importance of reapplication throughout the day for outdoor athletes.
- A portion of all WearSPF sales supports the Justin Thomas Foundation, which aids children, junior golf programs, and military families.
- The brand is expanding its offerings beyond sunscreen, with recent launches including a collaboration with Garage Beer and a premium shaving cream.
A Life-Changing Diagnosis
In 2019, Justin Thomas received news that would forever change his perspective on sun safety. During a routine checkup, his dermatologist discovered a small mole on his left calf that was later diagnosed as early-stage melanoma, the most dangerous form of skin cancer. Though Thomas had been vigilant about sun protection in most areas, he admitted to neglecting certain parts of his body, including his calves. The diagnosis came as a shock to the then-twenty-something golfer, who underwent surgery to ensure all cancerous cells were removed.
“I didn’t know very much about melanoma, but I know enough to know that that word melanoma isn’t a good thing,” said Justin Thomas
The surgery was brief but significant, involving the removal of a substantial amount of tissue surrounding the mole. Despite the physical recovery being relatively straightforward, the emotional impact was profound. Thomas initially hesitated to share his experience publicly but ultimately decided to use his platform to raise awareness about skin cancer, particularly among young athletes who might not consider themselves at risk.
From Patient to Advocate
Thomas’s brush with melanoma became a catalyst for change, transforming him from a patient into a passionate advocate for sun safety. After searching unsuccessfully for high-quality, affordable sunscreen options, he made the decision to create his own. This led to the founding of WearSPF, a sunscreen brand specifically designed for athletes who spend hours in the sun. The brand was developed in collaboration with Milbar Laboratories, focusing on creating products that offer effective protection without compromising athletic performance.
“Knowing how close I was to a life-threatening situation was a real wake-up call for me. Since my experience with melanoma, I was always on the lookout for a better sunscreen. I couldn’t find a high quality sunscreen at an affordable price so I decided to make my own,” said Justin Thomas
WearSPF products are distinguished by their oxybenzone-free formulas, which provide broad-spectrum protection while being water and sweat-resistant, crucial features for outdoor athletes. Unlike many commercial sunscreens, WearSPF emphasizes the importance of reapplication throughout the day, addressing a common oversight that Thomas himself experienced. The brand’s mission extends beyond selling products to educating consumers about the critical role of sun protection in both health and athletic performance.
Beyond Sunscreen: Philanthropy and Growth
WearSPF has evolved beyond being merely a sunscreen brand to encompass a broader commitment to health and community support. A portion of all sales is directed to the Justin Thomas Foundation, which supports various charitable initiatives focused on children, junior golf programs, and military families. This philanthropic dimension aligns with Thomas’s vision of creating a brand that makes a positive impact beyond protecting individuals from harmful UV rays.
“Sunscreen can literally save lives – and that’s the message I want to send. Beyond that, competing in the sun isn’t the same if you aren’t protected. I have felt the impacts of a sunburn – lethargy, achy, etc. It severely hinders your ability to move around and play at your best,” said Justin Thomas
The brand is actively expanding its product line to meet diverse consumer needs. Recent launches include a collaboration with Garage Beer on a limited-edition SPF 50 sports spray, targeting a broader audience of outdoor enthusiasts. Additionally, WearSPF has introduced a premium shaving cream designed to protect and nourish the skin, indicating a strategic move toward becoming a comprehensive skin care brand for active individuals. Through these innovations, Thomas continues to champion the crucial message that sun protection is not just about preventing cancer but also about optimizing performance and overall well-being.
