The Melanoma Fund is advising skiers and snowboarders to improve their sun protection habits, to avoid the risk of sun damage and skin cancer.
They recommend apply a broad-spectrum SPF30+ water resistant sunscreen product, paying special attention to all exposed skin and that you reapply it every two hours (or each time you take a break) to ensure full protection.
"During summer sports, we know that sunscreen sweats, washes, and rubs off easily, meaning we must reapply more often. However, snow and strong winds erode sunscreen even faster, exposing skin to the intense UV rays, found at high altitudes," a Melanoma Fund spokesperson said, adding, "For every 300 vertical metres above sea level, UV intensity increases by about 5%. Multiply that by the altitude of your resort and you could be exposed to 40% or more intense UV radiation."
"With fresh snow reflecting up to 85% of UV radiation, a sunny day on slopes at high altitude can triple the usual risk of sunburn, sun damage and ultimately, skin cancer. The risk of snow blindness, or inflammation of the surface of the eye, is also greatly enhanced," explained Professor Brian Diffey.
The Melanoma Fund advises skiers:
1. Apply a broad-spectrum SPF30+ water resistant product, paying special attention to all exposed skin.
2. Reapply every 2 hours (or each time you break) to ensure full protection.
3. The sun is strongest between 11am and 3pm depending on the season and your location, so pay special attention during this time.
4. Avoid damage to eyes by wearing good quality 'UV protection' lenses. If switching from goggles to glasses during the day, remember to protect newly exposed skin.
5. Wearing a helmet not only offers crash protection, but also ensures that your forehead, scalp, and ears are sun protected.
Says Michelle Baker, CEO of the Melanoma Fund; "If you're into your skincare, remember that over exposure to the sun can undo all that amazing work, making us look weathered, and at risk of skin cancer. It really is simple – remember to apply and reapply your SPF."
Michelle appeared on Episode 163 of The Ski Podcast. You can listen to her at about 10 minutes in.
https://www.melanoma-fund.co.uk/sunguarding/snowsports
