Whizzing down the slopes on skis in bright sunshine and crisp winter air—what could be better? For avid skiers, there’s no question about it. Careful facial care with sun protection is essential for unspoiled skiing enjoyment. The skin on your face, in particular, is put under extra strain in this winter wonderland.
Why are good skincare and effective sun protection important in the winter?
The risk of sunburn is often underestimated in winter. The cold makes it hard to feel the sun’s intensity, but it’s still there. The risk of sunburn is particularly high when you’re in the mountains. Here, you are “literally” closer to the sun; solar radiation increases by 10 to 20 percent for every thousand meters of elevation gain. Since the air in the mountains is often clearer, UV radiation can penetrate unimpeded. In addition, snow reflects UV light, thereby amplifying its effects.
In other ways, too, the skin is particularly stressed in winter and requires special care. Cold air is significantly drier than warm air, and in cold weather, the skin produces less sebum for its protective lipid layer. The warm, heated air indoors further contributes to drying out the skin. Of course, wind and weather also pose a special challenge during the cold season. The skin on the face is directly exposed to these external factors, while other areas of the skin are better protected by winter or ski clothing.
What should you look for in skincare products and sunscreen?
So-called "cold creams" are ideal for winter skincare. This term refers to particularly rich creams that are specifically formulated for very dry and stressed skin. Their ingredients nourish, protect, and soothe irritated skin. At the same time, they promote skin regeneration. Applied in the morning and evening, they provide a good base for sunscreen.
When it comes to sun protection, you should use a winter sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 30. For very sensitive skin, a higher SPF may be appropriate—for example, SPF 50, which offers the highest possible protection against UV rays in winter. Apply sunscreen about half an hour before skiing. If you’ll be outdoors for an extended period, it’s recommended to reapply every two hours, as UV protection weakens over time.
Why isn't this sunscreen suitable for a summer vacation?
It might seem like a good idea to simply use the sunscreen from your last summer vacation on your ski trip as well. But that’s not a good idea. Summer sunscreens are usually water-based, while winter sunscreens are richer in oils. In addition to providing sun protection, they help prevent the skin from drying out. Sunscreens with a high water content can also freeze on the skin in sub-zero temperatures and during extended outdoor exposure, causing damage. This achieves the exact opposite of what you intended.
It’s also important not to forget good lip care. The skin on the lips is particularly thin and therefore very sensitive. It quickly becomes chapped and dry in winter weather. There are special products available that provide the lips with the necessary moisture and nourishment. They come in the form of lip balms or creams; a lip balm is ideal for on the go.
A Perfect Combination—Skin Care, Sun Protection, and Skiing Fun
Healthy, well-cared-for skin contributes to your well-being (not just) on a ski vacation. Taking care of your facial skin is easy. With optimal protection against UV rays and plenty of moisture, you can enjoy your skiing to the fullest.
