How to Avoid Sun Damage on the Slopes

You already know that when you’re having fun in the sun during the warmer months, it’s crucial to protect your skin from the sun’s harsh UV rays. But did you know the sun’s rays don’t take a break just because there’s snow on the ground? In fact, it’s often easier to get a sunburn in the winter than in the summer. Getting a sunburn in the winter months is both painful and preventable, so when you’re hitting the slopes to ski or snowboard, make sure to protect your skin with the following tips, brought to you by the snow sports experts from ASO Mammoth, the premier spot for Mammoth ski rentals, gear, and expert service.

Bundle Up

When skiing or snowboarding, you want to make sure to cover as much of your skin as possible. Investing in high-quality gear is important because doing so will keep you protected from the cold temperatures and the harmful sun. The risk of sun damage increases as the altitude increases, so it’s extra important to take measures against harm from the sun when skiing or snowboarding. Make sure to wear a mask (or sunglasses, at the very least) to prevent sun exposure from harming your face and eyes. Many high-quality masks offer up to 99 percent protection from UV rays, and wearing a mask or sunglasses diminishes the glare that both harms your eyes and puts you in danger of not being able to see the terrain clearly.

Wear Sunscreen

Sunscreen is a must-have during all seasons of the year, but people often forget to apply it unless it’s summertime. A broad-spectrum sunscreen is important when engaging in snow sports because the snow reflects—and therefore strengthens—those dangerous rays. By applying and reapplying sunscreen every two hours, you’re taking important steps to stay safe in the sun. It is also a good idea to wear a lip protectant with an SPF of at least 15, as lips can chap easily and are very sensitive to sun damage. Like water, wind and snow can decrease the efficacy of sunblock, so you need to be as vigilant as possible.

Take Breaks

Just like you take breaks from the sun when you’re at the beach, when you’re out skiing or snowboarding this winter, make sure to give yourself a break from the sun every few hours. These breaks will give your skin and eyes a break from the sun and create much-needed opportunities to stay hydrated. It’s easier to get a sunburn when you have prolonged exposure to the sun, and drinking plenty of water can prevent your skin from being too susceptible to those rays.

You can find sunscreen, masks, sunglasses, and every piece of gear you need to hit the slopes safely at ASO Mammoth, the mountain’s top spot for snow sports enthusiasts. Whether you’re looking for weather info, ski boots, or snowboard rentals in Mammoth, we’re your one-stop shop for equipment and expertise. Drop by and check out our high-quality gear before you hit the fresh powder, or give us a call at 760-965-3444.

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