Sun protection at the snow | Cancer Council NSW

Sun protection at the snow

Think UV not heat!

Sun protection is needed whenever the UV is 3 or above, even when it’s cold! You can’t see or feel UV radiation so the easiest way to know if you need sun protection is to check the SunSmart App daily.

Why is UV radiation a risk at the snow?

UV radiation levels are higher at high altitude; the air is cleaner and there is less atmosphere to absorb the UV rays. There is up to 30% more UV radiation at Mt Perisher (2,054 metres) and Thredbo (2,037 metres) than at sea level.

Snow is highly reflective; On a sunny day, clean fresh snow can reflect almost 90% of UV radiation. This means that UV radiation reaches you directly and indirectly (when it is scattered and reflected by the snow).

Read more about the factors that affect UV radiation levels.

How to protect your skin at the snow

Your ski gear covers most of your body to keep you warm; for areas not covered, remember these tips:

  • Take a break indoors or in the shade in the middle of the day when UV is highest.
  • Cover your head and ears with a helmet and earpads, balaclava or beanie with flaps.
  • Apply SPF 50 or higher broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen 20 minutes before going outside.
    • Commonly exposed areas: face, lips, throat, back of the neck, ears, behind your ears, under your chin, beneath your nose, and backs of hands if you are not wearing gloves.
  • Carry small tubes of sunscreen and lip balm to reapply every two hours.
  • When skiing in spring, you may have more skin exposed as the weather is warmer. Wear tops with long sleeves and a high neck or collar and apply sunscreen to all exposed areas.
  • Be a good role model for children and adults around you– actions speak louder than words.

How to protect your eyes at the snow

Snow blindness (sunburn on the surface of the eye) usually lasts only a few days but can be painful and contribute to long-term eye damage. To protect your eyes from reflected UV radiation:

  • Wear wrap-around sunglasses or snug-fitting goggles. Check the tag to ensure glasses or goggles meet the Australian Standard AS/NZS 1067.1:2016 (lens category 2 or higher).
  • If you wear prescription glasses, talk to your optometrist about getting prescription lenses fitted in your sunglasses or goggles.