When you're packing for a skiing holiday, sunscreen might not be the first thing that comes to mind. Thermal layers, ski jackets, gloves and goggles are usually at the top of the list.

After all, if temperatures are below freezing and you're surrounded by snow, surely sunburn isn't something you need to worry about?

Surprisingly, the opposite is true.

Skiing and snowboarding can expose your skin to significant levels of ultraviolet (UV) radiation, even when the weather is cold or cloudy. In fact, the combination of high altitude, reflective snow and prolonged time outdoors can make sun protection particularly important in the mountains.

Whether you're heading to the French Alps, Austria, Switzerland or further afield, understanding how winter sunshine affects your skin can help you enjoy your holiday without unwanted sun damage.

Why Is the Sun Stronger When Skiing?

There are several reasons why your skin can experience greater UV exposure during a skiing holiday than you might expect.

1. UV Radiation Increases with Altitude

The higher you travel above sea level, the thinner the atmosphere becomes, meaning less UV radiation is absorbed before reaching your skin.

According to the World Health Organization, UV radiation increases by approximately 10% for every 1,000 metres of altitude.

Many popular European ski resorts have slopes reaching 2,000–3,000 metres or more, where UV exposure can be considerably greater than at sea level under otherwise similar conditions.

This means that even on a cold winter's day, your skin can be exposed to significant UV radiation.

2. Snow Reflects UV Radiation

One of the biggest differences between a skiing holiday and everyday winter activities is the snow itself.

Fresh snow can reflect as much as 80–90% of incoming UV radiation, increasing your overall exposure.

Unlike grass or soil, which absorb much of the sunlight that reaches them, snow reflects a substantial proportion back towards your face and other exposed areas.

This means your skin receives UV radiation not only from above but also from below, making areas such as your nose, cheeks, chin and neck particularly vulnerable.

3. Cold Temperatures Can Be Deceptive

We naturally associate sunburn with hot weather, but UV radiation and temperature are two very different things.

You can become sunburnt when it's freezing outside, particularly at high altitude.

Cold air and wind can also make it harder to recognise when your skin is receiving too much sun exposure.

The fact that you don't feel hot doesn't mean your skin is protected.

Can You Get Sunburnt Skiing on a Cloudy Day?

Yes. Even when the mountains are covered in cloud, UV radiation can still reach your skin.

While thick clouds generally reduce UV exposure, thinner cloud cover can allow considerable amounts of UV radiation to pass through.

Combined with reflection from the snow, this means your skin may still receive significant UV exposure even when the sunshine isn't particularly noticeable.

It's therefore important not to judge your need for sunscreen simply by looking at the sky.

Checking the local UV index is a useful way to understand the day's conditions, but when spending extended periods skiing at altitude, sun protection should remain part of your routine.

Which Areas of Your Face Need the Most Protection?

Ski clothing usually covers most of your body, but several areas remain exposed throughout the day.

Pay particular attention to:

• Nose and cheeks: Frequently exposed to direct and reflected UV radiation.

• Chin and jawline: Particularly vulnerable to sunlight reflected upwards from the snow.

• Forehead and temples: Can become exposed when removing goggles or adjusting headwear.

• Ears and neck: Easily overlooked, particularly when wearing a helmet.

• Lips: Especially vulnerable to dryness, chapping and sunburn.

Even if your goggles and helmet cover much of your face, it's important to protect any exposed skin.

Remember that goggles and face coverings can shift throughout the day, revealing areas that may otherwise remain protected.

What SPF Should You Use When Skiing?

For a skiing holiday, we recommend choosing a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF50, particularly when spending long periods outdoors at high altitude.

SPF, or Sun Protection Factor, measures protection against UVB radiation, which is primarily responsible for sunburn.

However, UVA radiation is also important because it penetrates deeper into the skin and contributes to premature skin ageing and long-term skin damage.

When choosing sunscreen, look for:

• SPF30 or higher, with SPF50 offering a higher level of UVB protection.

• High UVA protection, ideally with a Boots 4- or 5-star UVA rating.

• Water and sweat resistance to help maintain protection during physical activity.

• A comfortable, easy-to-apply formula suitable for exposed facial skin.

• Suitability for sensitive skin, particularly if cold weather makes your skin more reactive.

No sunscreen offers complete protection, so it should always be combined with appropriate clothing, goggles and sensible sun exposure.

Why Choose EVY Sunscreen for Skiing?

EVY's patented Swedish EVYDERM® technology was developed to provide effective, long-lasting protection in challenging environments.

From intense summer sunshine to freezing mountain conditions, EVY's innovative sunscreen mousse combines high UVA and UVB protection with a lightweight formula designed to support your skin's natural protective barrier.

Long-Lasting Sun Protection

Unlike conventional creams that primarily remain on the skin's surface, EVY's mousse formula spreads throughout the upper layers of the skin, forming an invisible, breathable protective membrane.

This helps UV filters remain in place, providing durable protection throughout outdoor activities.

Exceptional Water and Sweat Resistance

Skiing can be surprisingly physical. Even in freezing temperatures, your body produces sweat, particularly beneath helmets, goggles and multiple layers of clothing.

EVY's water-resistant formula is designed to withstand perspiration and everyday activity, making it particularly suitable for active days on the slopes.

Lightweight, Non-Greasy Formula

Heavy skincare products can feel uncomfortable beneath helmets, goggles and face coverings.

EVY's lightweight mousse absorbs quickly without leaving a greasy finish or white cast, making it easy to incorporate into your morning skiing routine.

Developed for Sensitive Skin

Cold mountain air, wind and low humidity can leave your skin feeling dry, tight or irritated.

EVY's gentle, fragrance-free formulas are developed with sensitive skin in mind, helping support the skin's natural barrier while providing reliable sun protection.

Explore EVY Sunscreen Mousse SPF50 and discover long-lasting sun protection designed for active outdoor adventures, including winter sports.

How to Apply Sunscreen Before Skiing

Applying sunscreen properly is just as important as choosing the right product.

For the best protection:

1. Apply before heading outside. Allow sufficient time for your sunscreen to absorb before putting on your goggles, helmet and face covering.

2. Use a generous amount. Apply sunscreen evenly to all exposed areas of your face, ears and neck, following the product's recommended quantity.

3. Don't forget your chin and nose. These areas can receive significant reflected UV radiation from the snow.

4. Protect your lips. Use a suitable SPF30–50+ lip balm and reapply frequently.

5. Reapply regularly. Reapply sunscreen at least every two hours while outdoors, and sooner after heavy sweating or rubbing your face.

Even when using a long-lasting sunscreen such as EVY, regular reapplication helps maintain reliable protection throughout the day.

How Does Cold Weather Affect Your Skin?

Sun exposure isn't the only challenge your skin faces during a skiing holiday.

Cold temperatures, strong winds and low humidity can all contribute to moisture loss, leaving skin feeling dry, rough or uncomfortable.

Your skin's natural protective barrier plays an important role in retaining moisture and defending against environmental irritants.

When that barrier becomes compromised, you may notice:

• Dryness and tightness.

• Redness and irritation.

• Flaky or rough patches.

• Increased sensitivity to skincare products.

• Chapped lips and uncomfortable skin around the nose and cheeks.

These problems can become more noticeable when moving repeatedly between freezing outdoor temperatures and warm, heated accommodation.

Supporting Your Skin Barrier During a Skiing Holiday

A few simple skincare habits can make a significant difference to how your skin feels throughout your holiday.

Moisturise regularly. Use a gentle moisturiser to help replenish moisture and support your skin's natural barrier.

Avoid harsh cleansing. Choose mild, fragrance-free cleansers and avoid washing your face with very hot water.

Protect exposed skin. Cover your face and neck appropriately when conditions are particularly cold or windy.

Stay hydrated. Drink plenty of water throughout the day. It's easy to overlook hydration in cold weather, particularly when you're physically active.

Consider additional barrier care. Products designed to support skin hydration and barrier function can be particularly helpful during winter.

EVY Repair Mousse is designed to provide intensive hydration and support the skin's natural protective barrier, making it a useful addition to your winter skincare routine.

Apply barrier-supporting skincare as directed and allow it to absorb before layering other products.

Explore EVY Repair Mousse and discover a gentler approach to hydration and barrier care in demanding winter conditions.

Don't Forget Your Eyes: The Importance of Ski Goggles

UV radiation doesn't just affect your skin. It can also damage your eyes.

Snow reflects significant amounts of UV radiation, increasing exposure during skiing and snowboarding.

In severe cases, excessive UV exposure can cause photokeratitis, sometimes called snow blindness, a painful condition affecting the surface of the eye.

Choose ski goggles or sunglasses that offer 100% UVA and UVB protection, and ensure they fit comfortably with your helmet.

Good-quality goggles also help protect your eyes from wind, snow and glare, making them an essential part of your winter sports equipment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need SPF50 for skiing?

SPF30 is the minimum generally recommended for sun protection, but SPF50 is a sensible choice when skiing at high altitude, where UV exposure can be particularly intense.

Can you get sunburnt when it's snowing?

Yes. UV radiation can reach your skin in cold conditions, including when it's cloudy or snowing. Exposure depends on factors such as altitude, cloud cover and the local UV index.

Should I wear sunscreen underneath ski goggles?

Apply sunscreen to all exposed skin, including areas around your goggles. Goggles with suitable UV protection shield the skin they cover, but they may shift or be removed throughout the day.

Does sunscreen protect against cold wind?

Sunscreen protects primarily against UV radiation. Some formulations also contain moisturising ingredients that support the skin barrier, but they aren't a substitute for suitable face coverings and protective winter clothing.

How often should I reapply sunscreen when skiing?

Reapply at least every two hours while outdoors, and sooner if your sunscreen has been removed by sweating, wiping or rubbing. Follow the manufacturer's directions and always apply generously.

Enjoy the Mountains, Protect Your Skin

A skiing holiday is an opportunity to enjoy spectacular scenery, fresh mountain air and unforgettable days on the slopes.

But while the temperatures may be freezing, the sun's UV radiation can still be surprisingly intense.

High altitude, reflective snow and prolonged time outdoors make effective sun protection an essential part of your skiing equipment.

By choosing a high-protection sunscreen, looking after your skin's natural barrier and protecting your eyes and lips, you can enjoy everything the mountains have to offer while helping to minimise sun damage.

With patented EVYDERM® technology, EVY combines advanced Swedish skincare science with long-lasting sun protection designed for active lifestyles.

Explore EVY Sunscreen Sports & Endurance and discover protection that goes further, wherever your next adventure takes you.

Always apply sunscreen generously and reapply regularly, at least every two hours and more frequently after heavy sweating or rubbing. No sunscreen provides complete protection against UV radiation.