Sun protection in the mountains: why it is important
When it comes to sun protection, many people associate its use with summer days by the sea, but in reality, it is just as essential to apply it in the mountains, even during winter. Those who engage in winter sports such as skiing, snowboarding, or snowshoeing are exposed to significant risks, even when the weather conditions seem milder. The skin must be protected from damage caused by UV rays.
In fact, even during the winter months, at high altitudes, exposure to the sun’s rays can have harmful consequences for the skin if not adequately protected.
In the mountains, the intensity of UV rays increases with altitude. For every 1000 metres in height, exposure to the sun’s rays increases by about 10-12%. This means that at high altitudes, UV rays are much more intense than at sea level. At 2000 metres, for example, the intensity of solar radiation is 20-24% higher, thus increasing the risk of skin damage.
Moreover, snow acts as a powerful reflector, amplifying sun exposure. Up to 80% of UV rays can be reflected by snow, hitting the skin from different angles. Even on cloudy days, about 70% of solar radiation manages to penetrate through the clouds, causing skin damage without us even realising. This phenomenon is particularly dangerous because the risk of sunburn is often underestimated in conditions of limited visibility.
Another factor to consider is that the cold in the mountains does not reduce the danger of UV rays. In fact, the skin may not feel the heat, but UV rays continue to have their harmful effect. Using sun protection is therefore necessary to prevent sunburn, premature skin ageing, and to reduce the risk of skin cancers, such as melanoma, which is linked to excessive exposure to UV rays.
Furthermore, the cold wind in the mountains can diminish the sensation of warmth typically associated with sun exposure. As a result, it’s easy to forget that UV rays are still active and can damage the skin even without the warmth of a typical summer day. Therefore, it is essential to protect the skin with an appropriate sunscreen, even when the weather conditions seem unfavourable.
To protect oneself adequately, it is recommended to use a sunscreen with a high protection factor (SPF 30 or 50) and broad-spectrum protection, defending against both UVA and UVB rays. It is also important to reapply it several times throughout the day, especially after getting wet or sweating.
It is important to emphasise that, even during the winter season and when in the mountains, the use of sunscreen is crucial to ensure the health of the skin and prevent potentially serious long-term damage. It is essential to remember that, even in the absence of the typical warmth of summer days, ultraviolet (UV) rays remain present in the surrounding environment and can cause damage similar to that caused by the summer sun. UV rays are just as dangerous in the mountains, where snow can reflect sunlight, intensifying exposure. For this reason, it is important to choose sunscreen appropriate for the type of activity being carried out, and to apply it regularly and generously throughout the day. In doing so, you help ensure a safe, healthy, and worry-free day in the mountains, allowing you to fully enjoy the outdoor experience without risking harm to your skin.
