Skin Care On the Slopes: Tips & Tricks for Skiers & Snowboarders

If you’re a skier or a snowboarder no doubt the season’s snowy winter temps have you hitting the slopes. But before you get set to head out on your next run, read this. According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, higher altitudes mean an increased risk of sun-induced damage, since UV radiation exposure increases by up to five percent every 1000 feet above sea level. Between the higher elevations on the slopes plus the reflection of the UV rays by the snow, skiers and snowboarders are often at an increased risk of sun damage. Below we list the must-have skin care products you should apply (and reapply) before hopping on that lift.

We often don’t associate winter with sunburns and sun damage—but we should. As the Skin Cancer Foundation notes, UV rays can be reflected by the snow, making it vital to apply sunscreen with a broad-spectrum SPF of 30 or more before heading outdoors. Not only to UVA and UVB rays lead to premature signs of skin aging—fine lines, wrinkles, dark spots…you know the drill—they are also responsible for skin cancers like melanoma, which can be fatal if not caught early. Keep a small sunscreen with you in your pocket to remember to reapply on any exposed areas of skin while you’re out for your run. One we love is La Roche-Posay Anthelios 50 Mineral. This ultra light mineral sunscreen fluid is formulated with zinc oxide and antioxidant protection to help shield your skin from both UV rays and free radicals. While many mineral sunscreens can be white and chalky on the skin, this formula is non-whitening and fast-absorbing so there are no excuses not to reapply during your day on the slopes.

The effects of the sun don’t end with visible skin aging and sunburns; those harsh rays can also be drying. Pair the drying effects of the sun with the equally skin-parching effects of cold weather and wind and you have a recipe for chapped lips. Before heading out, apply a thick layer of a lip emollient over your pout—bonus points if it’s formulated with SPF! Stash the stick next to your sunscreen in your pocket to remind yourself to reapply throughout the day. One product we love for outdoor activities—especially in the winter months—is Kiehl’s Butterstick Lip Treatment SPF 25. Formulated with coconut oil and lemon butter, this hydrating treatment melts onto lips providing them with a cushion of moisture. Remember to reapply often to help protect your pout from the effects of UVA and UVB rays.

Moisturizers 

Dryness isn’t reserved for your lips when it comes to the effects of a day spent out on the mountain. In fact, the drying effects of winter weather can strike from head to toe. Save face—or you know, keep yours hydrated—by bringing along a moisturizer that’s formulated with hyaluronic acid. This hydration powerhouse is able to attract and hold on to 1000 times its weight in water. Suitable for normal to combination skin—yes folks, even skin that looks a little shiny needs moisture—Vichy Aqualia Thermal Mineral Water Gel can help to provide the long-lasting hydration your skin needs. Apply morning and night after cleansing—and even during the day if you need an extra boost of moisture. For the skin below your chin, reach for one of The Body Shop’s iconic body butters. The rich body moisturizers are available in a variety of scents—our personal favorite is Coconut—so there’s something for everyone. Finally, since our hands are often more subject to the cold during a day spent outdoors, consider packing along a hand cream to keep dryness at bay. Try Carol’s Daughter Almond Cookie Hand Cream because who says you have to wait for the après ski portion of your day to enjoy a little sweet treat?