An unexpected diagnosis can change anyone’s perspective, and for PGA Tour star Justin Thomas, discovering melanoma in his twenties became a profound turning point. In this interview, Thomas shares the deeply personal story behind his commitment to sun safety, unveiling how this experience propelled him to co-found WearSPF, a new line of high-performance sun protection. In the conversation, we dive into his journey from elite athlete to passionate advocate, exploring how he balanced his demanding golf career with the hands-on creation of a brand designed to educate and protect fellow athletes.
Dave Knox: Can you share more about your experience with discovering Melanoma?
Justin Thomas: As a young athlete, I didn’t take sun exposure seriously. And in 2019, my dermatologist discovered a small mole on my leg in the early stages of melanoma. Fortunately, the cancer was caught in time and surgically removed, but I was forever changed by the entire experience. I wish I had paid more attention as a young athlete to the importance of sunscreen. As a golfer, I’m in the sun a lot. I applied sunscreen, but what I didn’t realize was the importance of reapplying throughout the day.
Knox: There are many cases of professional athletes endorsing products, but you built WearSPF from the ground up. Can you share the story of its creation and your hands-on involvement in building the brand?
Thomas: 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.
I got connected to a great manufacturing facility called Milbar Laboratories that specializes in OTC and sunscreen. It was most important to me that this line be a very high-quality formula at an appropriate price. WearSPF is my passion project with my goal being to educate youth athletes on the importance of sun safety. I’m a new father, and leaving this legacy behind is deeply personal, now more than ever.
Knox: Talk to me about how you believe the sun impacts your performance and why this education is important.
Thomas: 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. On the WearSPF website, we have helpful information on how to self-check, when to see a dermatologist, and general rules for skin cancer prevention, like always wearing a broad spectrum sunscreen.
Knox: What is your skin/suncare routine?
Thomas: I apply the WearSPF Mineral Performance Sunscreen Spray before I go outside. Then, reapply at the 7th and 14th tee with the stick so my hands don’t get greasy. Now, I’m more mindful to try to walk on the shady side of the fairway.
My favorite product is the WearSPF 50 Sunscreen Sport Stick, which is great for athletes. The sport stick is portable, water-resistant, broad spectrum SPF 50 sports stick for face and body – perfect for an active, on-the-go lifestyle. Use on your face, ears, lips, or any other targeted spots.
Knox: How is WearSPF marketing specifically to outdoor athletes and not being another “beach sunscreen”?
Thomas: WearSPF is a high-quality and high-performance suncare product line available at an affordable, accessible price. It’s all about prevention and performance. WearSPF is more than the brand name – it’s a call to action, especially to young athletes competing in the sun, that they have to be applying and reapplying sunscreen.
There are a lot of misconceptions about sunscreen out there. Our formulas are oxybenzone-free, water- and sweat-resistant, and designed lightweight unlike typical sport sunscreens that leave you feeling sticky or break down in the heat of competition.
We also believe education is a big part of protection. Studies show sunburn can impair physical performance and contribute to dehydration. Wearing sunscreen isn’t just about preventing burns — it’s part of a complete performance routine that helps protect skin, regulate hydration, and support body temperature during activity and recovery.
Knox: What is the latest and greatest with WearSPF?
Thomas: We recently partnered with Garage Beer on a limited-edition Garage Beer x WearSPF custom can. It’s an easy-to-apply broad spectrum SPF 50 sports spray for face and body—your ultimate sidekick for sunny days. Infused with super-nourishing antioxidant ingredients – green tea + carrot extract, avocado oil, and vitamin E, to keep the skin replenished and hydrated.
I’m pumped to be kicking off this collaboration between Garage Beer and WearSPF. This partnership is perfect for long days on the course, watching football or hanging in the backyard. Their brand aligns so well with what we’re building over at WearSPF, which is enjoying the outdoor lifestyle – light, simple, and fun.
WearSPF goes beyond sunscreen! We also launched a premium shaving cream that is designed to deliver a clean, close shave while protecting and nourishing your skin. It cushions every stroke to reduce irritation and redness. Whether you’re tackling a five o’clock tee time shadow or prepping for the day ahead, WearSPF Shaving Cream leaves your skin smooth, refreshed, and ready for the sun.
Knox: What is the connection between the Justin Thomas Foundation and WearSPF?
Thomas: A portion of proceeds from every sale of WearSPF goes directly to the Justin Thomas Foundation.
The Justin Thomas Foundation positively impacts children in need, junior golf, and military families with the intent of helping all achieve their full potential.
The goals of the Justin Thomas Foundation reflect the altruistic aspirations of the Thomas family. By funding programming and fulfilling requests of those in need, they are committed to showing compassion, displaying kindness, and making a difference in the world.
