What’s not to love about a fun-filled jaunt to snowy-capped mountains? From winding down wintry hills by day to roaring fires and après adventures by night, it’s no surprise the ski scene has become such a peak (pun intended) holiday destination.
But with punishing climates, scorching sunlight and dehydrating effects of central heating in your chalet, skiing and snowboarding trips can cause havoc on your complexion – skin can feel raw, red and dehydrated. So, if your favourite cold weather activity includes an annual visit to the slopes, listen up! You’ll need to upgrade your skin care routine… and that’s where we come in.
FROM THE SLOPES…
The number one rule any slope-goer should know? SPF is non-negotiable. Although it might feel a little counterintuitive to apply sunscreen when surrounded by a blanket of snow, the sun at high altitude (AKA when you’re at the top of a mountain) is more harmful than at sea level. “The air is much thinner and less polluted the higher the attitude, meaning fewer obstacles for UV rays to pass through,” Rebecca Jefferd and Ava Chandler-Matthews, the founders of Ultra Violette tell us. Plus, did you know snow also acts as a mirror, reflecting the sun’s rays for a double-helping of skin damage? As you’ll be out in the sun all day with little opportunity for shade – you know, when you’re trying to nail those satisfying sharp turns – SPF is essential for protection.
Want to learn more about SPF? Head to our Ultimate Sunscreen Guide to find out about the ultimate skin care daily defence.
First things first, a face SPF is essential. Protecting your skin no longer means slathering a thick-textured formula across your complexion, it can be undetectable, illuminating, moisturising or all three – the choice is yours! To keep your skin looking happy and healthy, preventing sun damage and premature ageing, never skip on your face sunscreen. We suggest looking for high SPF/UVA, water-resistant formulas (just in case you accidentally face plant whilst trying to demount from the T-bar lift). Or you can opt for stick versions; these are more practical for skiers and snowboarders and feature waxy formulas that help minimise the effects of windburn while protecting your skin.