As the winter approaches, countless Americans will be gearing up for ski and snowboard vacations.  While skin cancer prevention efforts are usually strongest in the summer months, skin cancer should also be a concern on the slopes.  “It is easy to think that a cold environment means you are not at risk of getting burnt, but it’s important that people on skiing [vacations] are aware that the sun can be even stronger on the slopes than it is on the beach” says Cancer Research UK spokesperson. 

Sun on the slopes pose a unique danger to the skin for a few big reasons.  First, the higher up you go, the less atmosphere there is to filter the UV rays before they reach the skin.  Exposure to UV rays is the most common cause of skin cancer.  UV intensity increases four to five percent for every 1000 feet above sea level.  This means you have much less atmospheric protection from the sun at the top of a snowy mountain than you do lying on a sandy beach. 

The snow reflects approximately 85 percent of the sun’s rays.  This means that those rays are bounced back upward, exposing skiers and snowboarders to additional skin cancer risks.  Because the reflection comes from below, it is common for people in the snow to get sun burnt in unexpected places, such as beneath the chin or the ears. 

The best way to protect one’s self from the sun and prevent skin cancer on the slopes is to wear protective clothing, apply a broad spectrum sunscreen, and choose good eye protection. 

Protective clothing is the best way to protect yourself from the harmful effects of the sun.  A long sleeved jacket with a collar, a hat, and gloves can offer great protection. 

Skiers and snowboarders should choose a sunscreen with both UVA and UVB protection and an SPF of 15 or greater.  Sunscreens containing titanium dioxide and zinc oxide are recommended by dermatologists.  Sunscreen should be applied 15-30 minutes before going outside and reapplied every few hours. 

Wraparound goggles or sunglasses should be used to protect the eyes on the slopes.  Most of these products offer 99 percent protection from the sun’s UV rays. 

If you have additional questions or concerns about sun protection on the slopes, you may wish to speak with your health care professional.