Protecting Your Skin on the Slopes: A Dermatologist's Guide for Skiers
By: Afton Cobb, MD, FAAD
As a dermatologist (and snowboarder) in Jackson Hole, Wyoming, I'm passionate about helping my patients understand the importance of sun protection, especially for outdoor activities such as skiing. While many people associate sunscreen with warm summer days at the beach, the truth is that sun exposure can be just as harmful during winter sports. In fact, skiers are at a particularly high risk of developing skin cancer due to the unique combination of high altitude, reflective snow and prolonged sun exposure.
One of the biggest misconceptions about sun protection while skiing is that cold weather and overcast skies provide protection from harmful UV rays. However, this couldn't be further from the truth. In fact, UV radiation can be even more intense at higher altitudes, with every 1,000 feet of elevation gain resulting in a 4-5% increase in UV intensity. Additionally, snow reflects up to 80% of UV radiation, effectively doubling your exposure to the sun. Luckily, most people are bundled up when they’re recreating outside in the winter, however, exposed areas such as the nose, cheeks, chin, neck, and ears are still at risk.
This increased UV exposure puts skiers at a higher risk of developing skin cancer (particularly on the head and neck), including both melanoma and non-melanoma skin cancers such as basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma. Studies have shown that individuals who participate in outdoor winter sports like skiing have a significantly higher incidence of these types of skin cancer compared to the general population.
So, what can skiers do to protect their skin and reduce their risk of skin cancer? Here are a few tips:
Apply sunscreen generously: Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher, and apply it to all exposed skin at least 15-30 minutes before hitting the slopes. Don't forget to reapply every two hours, or more frequently if you're sweating or if you've been in the snow. Choose a mineral (zinc or titanium-based) sunscreen labeled as “water-resistant” or “sport” for optimal coverage.
Cover up: Wear protective clothing such as long sleeves, pants, gloves, and a wide-brimmed hat to shield your skin from direct sunlight. Look for clothing with built-in UV protection, and don't forget to protect your eyes with UV-blocking sunglasses or goggles. You can also look for nose/cheek covers to wear under your glasses or goggles in the winter.
Seek shade: Take breaks in shaded areas whenever possible, especially during peak UV hours between 10 am and 4 pm. This will give your skin a chance to recover from the sun's rays and reduce your overall exposure. If possible, plan your ski adventures in the morning or evening, outside of peak UV hours.
Stay hydrated: Proper hydration is essential for healthy skin, so be sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day, especially at high altitudes where the air is dry.
Perform regular skin checks: Get to know your skin and be vigilant about checking for any changes, such as new moles, growths, or spots that bleed, itch, or change in size, shape, or color. If you notice anything suspicious, don't hesitate to see a dermatologist for evaluation.
By following these simple steps, skiers and snowboarders can enjoy their time on the slopes while minimizing their risk of developing skin cancer. Remember, protecting your skin is not just a summer activity – it's a year-round commitment to your health and well-being. So, before you head out for your next ski adventure, don't forget to lather on the sunscreen and cover up for safe and healthy fun in the snow!