Lubricating on winter sports

It is logical that we put anti-sunscreen in the bag for a holiday in the sun. But it is also important to protect the skin during winter sports. Snow, like a sandy beach and water, reflects the sun’s rays, threatening sunburn.

More than 85 percent of UV radiation is reflected in the snow. Moreover, at high altitudes the UV radiation is not only stronger, but also present when the sun does not show itself. The sun’s power can even be up to twice as strong because of the clean air. Dust particles in less clean air block part of the UV radiation. In the mountains, the UV rays can pass unimpeded. At 2000 meters the radiation is more than 30 percent stronger than at sea level.

The radiation is partly blocked by the clouds, but they do not filter everything. And sheep clouds even reflect the rays, just like fog. Add to that the fact that our pale winter skin is very suddenly exposed to the sun and hardly anyone looks for shade while skiing and you understand why red noses and burned ears are no exception.

Especially for winter sports

Using a good sunscreen, preferably with a factor of 30 or higher, is therefore not an exaggeration, even when the weather is not so nice. The temptation is great to put the bottle of sunscreen from the summer holidays in the winter sports bag. However, this is not wise, because a product for winter sports is quite different from that for a sun holiday.

freezing

Water-based creams—like most summer sunscreens—freeze on the skin in the cold. Winter sports creams therefore contain a lot of fats, which means that they also remain easy to spread at low temperatures. In addition, these creams prevent dehydration of the skin; that happens quickly when it’s cold. Keep in mind that putting on and taking off your ski goggles or headband may wipe the cream off your face. It is therefore important to re-lubricate regularly (every two hours).

Take care of your lips

In addition to the anti-sunburn, the lip balm should not be forgotten. Your lips become rough and chapped due to the reflection of UV rays. In combination with cold and possibly a reduced resistance, a cold sore quickly rears its head. If you suffer from this more often and recognize the signs, it is wise to take action quickly.

Combi tubes

The nose, earcups and lips in particular have to pay for it on winter sports. Combitubes are therefore ideal during winter sports. You put them in your jacket pocket and you can apply at any time. Keep in mind that the lip balm in these combinations generally has a lower protection factor than the accompanying sun cream. The handy size means that you can easily apply yourself in the long line in front of the ski lift. Try to make this a routine.

The eyes

In addition to the skin, the eyes are also sensitive to UV radiation. Excessive exposure to UV radiation can lead to corneal inflammation. This is also known as ‘snow blindness’. Therefore always wear ski goggles to protect the eyes.