People in Arizona must protect their skin from the desert sun. But they also need sunburn protection when they ski in the winter time. While most people think of Arizona in terms of its warm and even scorching temperatures, it also is home to winter activities like snowboarding and skiing.
When you ski or take part in winter sports, you need the right gear - a warm jacket, gloves, and boots. However, just because it’s cold outside does not mean you’re still immune from the sun’s burning rays. Safeguarding your skin is essential. So, you need sun protection of a certain number.
Why Is Sun Protection Important for Skiers?
At first glance, it may not seem obvious why protecting yourself from the sun’s beams is so critical when you’re skiing or spending time on the slopes. After all, it’s cold outside and the sun isn’t as strong as it is in the summer months. However, a few factors contribute to an increased risk of sunburn while skiing or snowboarding:
1. A Higher Altitude
UV radiation exposure increases with altitude. In fact, for every 1,000-meter (3,280 feet) increase in altitude, UV levels increase by 10-12%. Ski resorts are often situated at high altitudes with a thinner atmosphere, thereby offering less protection from damaging UV rays.
2. Snow Reflection
Snow reflects up to 80% of the sun’s UV rays compared to around 25% from sand or water. This means that you’re not only exposed to direct sunlight but also to the harmful rays bouncing off the snowy ground.
3. Penetrating Rays
Even when it's cloudy or overcast, up to 80% of the sun’s radiation can penetrate through clouds and reach your skin. So, you can get burned and not even realize it. The rays also penetrate your windows while driving, so you can never be too safe.
Using the Right Sunscreen Product
Now that we’ve established the need for sun protection while skiing, let’s address whether using a higher sun protection is better in this scenario. For most people, an SPF of 15 is sufficient for regular day-to-day outdoor activities.
However, given the high altitude, snow reflection, and increased exposure to UV radiation during skiing activities, skin care experts recommend using a sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher.
An SPF of 30 offers approximately 97% protection. When it comes to skiing and spending an extended time outside in the cold, every extra bit of protection counts.
You can get what you need from Arizona Sun, which offers an SPF 30 sunscreen product that you can easily order online.
Tips for Sun Protection on the Ski Slopes
You can have fun in the sun, whether on a winter or a summer day, in the desert or on the ski slopes. Just make sure you have the adequate amount of solar protection. Otherwise, your fun in the sun will turn into a painful memory.
1. Apply Sunscreen:
Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen - again, with at least SPF 30 and apply it generously to all exposed skin at least 15 minutes before heading outdoors. Don’t forget areas like your ears, nose, and the underside of your chin. Reapply every two hours or immediately after sweating or wiping your face.
2. Wear Protective Clothing
Opt for ski clothing designed with sun protection in mind – this includes long-sleeved shirts and pants made from tightly woven and moisture-wicking fabrics.
3. Use a Lip Balm
Don’t forget your lips. They can chap easily in cold and dry temperatures. Apply a lip balm with an SPF of at least 15 to protect them from drying out and burning.
4. Wear Sunglasses or Goggles
Invest in quality sunglasses or goggles that offer complete UV protection for your eyes as well as the sensitive skin around them.
Using a higher sun protection is indeed better when you’re hitting the slopes due to the unique sun exposure risk. By following the above sunscreen protection tips during your winter adventures, you’ll safeguard your skin from potential harm without an agonizing sunburn hampering your fun.
Get Your Sun Care Products from Arizona Sun
Go online and visit the Arizona Sun website for all of your sun care needs today.