Sunscreen for skiing

[Ktay]

Keen to pack some rather than get fleeced in resort. DH reckons water-based stuff in unsuitable but I'm not sure he's right? Please can someone recommend something I can pick up in a local chemist. Seen la Roche posay anthelios recommended but any others? Also need some for the DDs, whose skin is more sensitive than mine. TIA...

[DandelionGilver]

This is what the Skin Cancer Organisation say - seems like any will do as long as you use enough and reapply regularly. This is a direct quote form their site.


Winter sports enthusiasts are at increased risk for overexposure to the sun's ultraviolet (UV) radiation. The combination of higher altitude and UV rays reflected by the snow puts skiers and snowboarders at an increased risk of sun damage, and ultimately skin cancer. More than 90 percent of all skin cancers are associated with sun exposure.

"It's easy to associate winter with frostbite and windburn, but most people are unaware that UV rays can be every bit as damaging on the slopes as on the beach," said Perry Robins, MD, President, The Skin Cancer Foundation. "With the winter sports season ahead of us, it's more important than ever to take proper precautions on the slopes."

Higher altitude means increased risk of sun-induced skin damage, since UV radiation exposure increases 4 to 5 percent with every 1,000 feet above sea level. At an altitude of 9,000 to 10,000 feet, UV radiation may be 35 to 45 percent more intense than at sea level. In addition, snow reflects up to 80 percent of the UV light from the sun, meaning that you are often hit by the same rays twice. This only increases the risk for damage.


Both snow and strong wind can wear away sunscreen and reduce its effectiveness, so you have to take extra precautions. To protect your skin from the bitter cold, heavy winds and winter sun, follow these important sun protection tips:

Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF (Sun Protection Factor) of 30 or higher whenever you spend extended time outdoors. Apply 30 minutes before hitting the slopes. Be aware that the sun's reflection off the snow is strong even on cloudy days. (Up to 80 percent of the sun's rays can penetrate clouds.)

Apply sunscreen liberally and evenly to all exposed skin - most skiers and snowboarders do not use enough. You should apply at least a teaspoon to the face.

Use a moisturizing sunscreen with ingredients like lanolin or glycerin. Winter conditions can be particularly harsh on the skin.

Be sure to cover often-missed spots: the lips, ears, around the eyes, and on the neck, the underside of chin, scalp and hands.

Reapply every two hours, and immediately after heavy sweating.

Always wear a lip balm with an SPF 15 or higher - lips are very sensitive.

Carry a travel-sized sunscreen and lip balm with you on the slopes. Reapply on the chairlift, especially after a long, snow-blown run.

[Ktay]

Thanks for that - I do try and do most of those things. Will just go with the most portable option from the limited selection currently in the chemists in that case!

[ExitPursuedTheRoyalPrude]

Marking my place as DD is off skiing on Thursday.

[Ktay]

Bumping in case anyone can recommend a particular brand...

[winklewoman]

No particular brand to recommend, but if anyone, like me, is prone to cold sores caused by sun exposure, take a tube of Zovirax or similar to rub on lips and nose as a precautionary measure, don't wait for the sore to appear. I learnt the hard way.

[EarlGreyCuppa]

I tend to use Boots own brand for the kids - at least factor 50. I apply liberally on their face before they go off for ski school, then again after lunch (if I remember). Lip balm as well. They get lip balm & sunscreen in their kit bag, which childcare staff may remind them to use...

I use Boots or Clarins or La Roche Posay, whatever I have in the cupboard basically. I do make sure they're "within" date, they're usually marked 12 or 24 months from opening.

I once got sunburn on my hairline, on the parting. I now always wear a hat or helmet...

[MrsMot]

Boots has special offers on atm. I've just bought Soltan kids Factor 50 sunscreen sticks, one for each of them to go in jacket pockets.

[IwishIwasmoreorganised]

We tend to go to Boots and get whatever is best value. I usually get our ds's the tubes with the lip bit at the end. Separates for DH and I it tends to work out cheaper, though i use our advantage points to pay for them.

[Ktay]

Ooh thanks lots more replies. Just got a couple of 75ml Ambre Solaire factor 50 tubes for dh and me and some kiddies' laroche posay for the girls. Will check out soltan mini options too.

[CaurnieBred]

We just get the Ambre Solaire Face lotion {http://www.boots.com/en/Garnier-Ambre-Solaire-Sheer-Protect-Hydrating-Face-Protection-Cream-SPF30-75ml_37701/ Boots Link]] Works for DH, DD and I and if necessary we apply to arms too, but it isn't usually that warm when we go away. I prefer the Face specific creams as I don't feel they are as heavy (but that might just be all in my head!)

[CaurnieBred]

Aargh link fail Boots Will teach me not to preview!

[Nevercan]

Check out ski sunscreen on amazon