Skin-Care Must-Haves to Pack for Your Upcoming Ski or Snow Trip

One way to make the bitter cold weather in winter more enjoyable is to go on a ski trip! When you’re gliding down the slopes, you’ll be having so much fun, you’ll almost forget how numb your face feels from the freezing temperatures outside (speaking from experience here). Like any good beauty editor who enjoys the seasonal snow trip — for me, it’s snowboarding — my packing list includes the usual assortment of snow gear  (boots, hat, board, gloves, face guard) and, of course, a few must-have skin-care products to protect my skin from the elements. 

Whether you’re new to skiing or looking to up your winter regimen game, consider this your ultimate skin-care guide for snowy-weather destinations. Let’s take a look at what's in my bag.

Must-Have #1: Sunscreen

Sunscreen is important every day, no matter what season it is or what activity is on the agenda, but on the slopes, you really don’t want to forget this product. Sunburn in winter is a real thing, especially because the snow reflects the sun’s UV rays which can increase your chances of burning. To keep my skin protected and hydrated, I like the Lancôme UV Expert Aquagel Defense Sunscreen with SPF 50. It acts as a sunscreen, moisturizer and primer all in one and doesn’t get in my eyes.

Must-Have #2: Lip Balm

We can’t think of a winter skin dilemma more annoying than chapped lips. Cracked, flaky, dry lips can be painful and a tough recurring problem to get rid of. Plus, they make applying your favorite lipstick tricky. While you’re skiing, you’ll want to keep a soothing lip balm like the Kiehl’s Lip Balm #1 tucked in the pocket of your jacket and reapply it often. 

Must-Have #3: Moisturizer

Before you even head out for the day, you’ll want to prep your skin to handle the harsh temperatures with a nourishing moisturizer. Look for one with hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid and ceramides that can help reinforce your skin’s moisture barrier, like the CeraVe Moisturizing Cream.

Must-Have #4: Skin Balm

When even a thick moisturizer can’t save your cracked, flaky skin, try a skin balm. I like to keep a multi-purpose balm in my bag to address super irritated areas — like around my nose, mouth and even my cuticles. Try the La Roche-Posay Cicaplast Baume B5.

Must-Have #5: Face Mist

If your skin is feeling extra parched in between runs, you can benefit from a soothing face mist. It’s easy to spritz on in a hurry and dries down fast, so you don’t have to worry about it freezing before you get off the lift. I like the True Botanicals Calm Nutrient Mist, which is designed to calm and soothe irritated or sensitive skin. 

Must-Have #6: Hand Cream

Your face and lips aren’t the only areas prone to dryness on a snow trip. Dry hands are yet another annoying problem that come with the territory. The Algenist Genius Liquid Collagen Hand Cream is formulated with vegan collagen, shea butter and a bunch of other skin-nourishing ingredients to get the job done.

Read More:

5 Non-Comedogenic Moisturizers You Need for Dry Skin This Winter

How to Improve Uneven Skin Texture

Breakouts and Acne Around Your Mouth? Here’s What It Means and What You Can Do

Photo: Photographer: Chaunte Vaughn, Art Director: Melissa San Vicente-Landestoy, Makeup Artist: Jonet Williamson, Makeup Assistant: Crisdanil, Wardrobe Stylist: Monet Luhrsen, Hair Stylist: Kiri Yoshiki, Visual Designer: Hannah Packer, Producer: Jessica Thiel, Production Assistant: Kaela Francesca, Digital Tech: Paul Yem, Model: Jess Epps