
When skiing, your face is exposed to extreme environmental conditions that can have adverse effects on your skin. The freezing temperature, mixed with harsh biting winds to the intense and amplified UV rays reflecting from the snow, it’s essential to protect your skin with the right products. Here’s an in-depth guide on what you should put on your face when skiing to safeguard your skin and keep it healthy. Being sun safe and protected is a good way to maintain and enjoy snowy landscapes to their full capacity.
Sunscreen
One of the most critical steps for skiing is applying sunscreen. Even though skiing happens in cold weather, the sun’s rays are still a significant threat. UV radiation increases with altitude, and considering snow reflects close to 80% of the UV rays, your exposure is amplified. Using a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least 30SPF is essential.
A sunscreen that provides UVA and UVB protection and is water-resistant will offer the highest protection. As you ski, sweat, snow, and wind can diminish the effectiveness of sunscreen, so it’s crucial to reapply every two hours. For optimal protection, apply sunscreen generously to your face, ears, neck, and any other exposed areas. Choose mineral-based sunscreens with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, as they tend to be less irritating for sensitive skin and more effective at blocking harmful rays.
Moisturizer
Cold air and wind strips your skin of natural moisture, which in turn leads to dryness, irritation, and even harsh windburn. Applying a hydrating moisturizer before sunscreen can create a barrier against the harsh elements. look for moisturizers that contain ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerine, or ceramides, which help the skin retain moisture. These ingredients not only hydrate but also protect the skin from the damaging effects of cold air.
If you have particularly dry skin, consider using a heavier, oil-based moisturizer during the winter months. Avoid products with fragrances or alcohol, as they can increase dryness. Moisturizers rich in emollients provide a protective layer over the skin, making it harder for the wind and cold to penetrate and cause irritation.
Lip Balm with SPF
Your lips are often overlooked but are just as vulnerable to the elements as the rest of your face. The skin on your lips is thin and doesn’t have oil production glands, making it prone to chapping and sunburn. Applying a lip balm that contains at least SPF 15 is an effective way to protect your lips from hard UV radiation. Reapplying throughout the day, especially after eating or drinking, will maximise your lips protection, choose a lip balm with nourishing ingredients like shea butter or beeswax to prevent dryness and maintain moisture.
Wind Protection
Windburn can be just as damaging as sunburn, leaving your skin feeling raw and irritated. To protect your face from the cold wind, consider using a balaclava, ski mask, or scarf. These accessories provide a shield for your skin from the wind as well as provide an extra layer of warmth in the colder environments. Balaclavas are the most effective as they cover a majority of your face, leaving only your eyes exposed, as to not obscure your vision.
If you prefer something lighter, a neck gaiter or buff can also offer protection from windburn, while being breathable and comfortable. These accessories are especially important on days with strong winds or during high-speed descents, where the wind can be particularly biting.
Tinted Moisturizer or BB Cream
For skiers who want light coverage without the weight of makeup, a tinted moisturizer or BB cream is a good choice. These products have many benefits: hydration, sun protection and light coverage. A tinted moisturizer with SPF can even out your skin tone, protect against UV damage and prevent the clogging of pores that occurs with heavy foundations. This combination of skin care and light make up is perfect for a day in the snow when you want to look natural while maintaining the protection and care of your skin.
Thermal Face Creams
In extremely cold environments, a regular moisturizer may not provide sufficient protection. Thermal face creams are formulated specifically for harsh, freezing temperatures. These creams are thicker and create a more robust barrier against the cold, helping to prevent frostbite and extreme dryness. If you’re skiing in sub-zero temperatures, a thermal face cream can offer much-needed protection.
These creams often contain occlusive ingredients like lanolin or petroleum jelly, which form a protective layer over the skin, preventing moisture loss. While these products are heavier than standard moisturizers, they’re crucial for skiing in extremely cold conditions where your skin is at risk of cracking or frostbite.
Eye Protection
Ski goggles or sunglasses are essential for protecting both your eyes and the skin around them. The delicate skin surrounding the eyes is susceptible to UV damage, which can lead to premature aging or sunburn. Sunglasses or goggles with 100% UV protection should be worn at all times, even on overcast days. Goggles, in particular, provide additional protection against wind, snow, and ice, keeping your eyes comfortable and your skin protected.
Antioxidant Serum
For an extra layer of defence, applying an antioxidant serum before your moisturizer can help protect your skin from environmental damage. Serums containing ingredients like Vitamin C, Vitamin E, or green tea extract help neutralize free radicals, which are molecules that can damage skin cells and accelerate aging. These serums can also enhance your skin’s resilience against UV rays and pollution, making them an excellent addition to your skiing skincare routine.
After-Ski Care
Your skincare routine shouldn’t stop when you’re off the slopes. A combination of sun protection, sweat and environmental toxins can clog pores and cause irritation. Start with a gentle cleanser to remove all traces of sunscreen and dirt from your skin. Follow with a rich, nourishing moisturizer to repair and hydrate skin overnight.
For extra hydration, consider using a moisturizing mask or face oil to replenish moisture lost throughout the day. Products that contain ingredients such as Aloe Vera and panthenol can also heal irritation or redness caused by wind or sun.
Protecting your face while skiing requires an approach that uses sunscreen, hydration and protection against various weather conditions. By using sunscreen, moisturizing and applying lip balm with SPF, as well as wearing the right protective clothing, you can enjoy your skiing season even more knowing that your skin is well protected. When all is said and done, use aftercare products to restore your skin’s balance and retain moisture, to keep the skin healthy for a long time.