10 Best Sunscreen for Skiing of 2023
Skiing is an exhilarating experience, but it can also be a dangerous activity if you are not properly protected from the sun.
Skiing is a fun and exhilarating winter sport, but it also exposes your skin to harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays.
The high altitude of ski resorts and the reflection of the sun off the snow can increase your risk of sunburn and skin damage.
That’s why wearing sunscreen is essential to protect your skin while skiing.
Why is sunscreen necessary for skiing?
The snow reflects sunlight, making the UV rays more intense at higher altitudes.
Additionally, the sun’s intensity increases by up to 10% for every 1,000 feet of elevation gain.
Therefore, skiing at higher elevations exposes you to more intense UV rays, increasing your risk of sunburn and skin damage.
Best sunscreen for skiing: What to look for
When shopping for sunscreen for skiing, there are several factors to consider, including:
Sun protection factor (SPF)
SPF measures the amount of UVB radiation that a sunscreen can filter out.
Sunscreens with higher SPF provide better protection against sunburn, premature aging, and skin cancer.
The American Academy of Dermatology recommends using sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher.
Broad-spectrum protection
Sunscreens with broad-spectrum protection protect against both UVA and UVB radiation.
UVA radiation penetrates the skin more deeply and causes long-term skin damage, while UVB radiation causes sunburn.
Therefore, it’s essential to choose a sunscreen that provides both types of protection.
Water resistance
Skiing involves sweating and exposure to snow, which can wash off sunscreen.
Therefore, it’s essential to choose a water-resistant sunscreen that stays on the skin even after sweating or water exposure.
Non-greasy and quick-drying
Skiing involves wearing multiple layers of clothing, including gloves and hats.
Therefore, it’s essential to choose a non-greasy and quick-drying sunscreen that doesn’t leave a residue or stain on clothing.
Best sunscreen for skiing: Top products
EltaMD UV Clear Facial Sunscreen
La Roche-Posay Anthelios Melt-In Sunscreen
Sun Bum Original Moisturizing Sunscreen Lotion
1. EltaMD UV Clear Facial Sunscreen: SPF 46
This oil-free, non-comedogenic sunscreen is popular among people with sensitive and acne-prone skin.
Its lightweight formula is easily absorbed into the skin, leaving no white cast or greasy residue.
Its key ingredients include niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, and zinc oxide, which help to soothe and protect the skin.
However, this sunscreen may not be suitable for people with darker skin tones due to its potential for leaving a white cast.
2. La Roche-Posay Anthelios Melt-In Sunscreen: SPF: 60
This sunscreen is water-resistant for up to 80 minutes and has a lightweight, non-greasy texture that is easily absorbed into the skin.
Its key ingredients include Mexoryl SX and XL, which provide broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection.
This sunscreen is suitable for all skin types and is especially recommended for people with sun-sensitive or intolerant skin.
However, it may not be suitable for people with oily skin due to its hydrating formula.
3. Sun Bum Original Moisturizing Sunscreen Lotion: SPF 30
This sunscreen has a pleasant coconut scent and is water-resistant for up to 80 minutes.
Its key ingredients include vitamin E and aloe vera, which help to nourish and hydrate the skin.
This sunscreen is suitable for all skin types and is especially recommended for people with dry or sensitive skin.
However, some people may find this sunscreen to be too thick or sticky, and it may leave a white cast on darker skin tones.
4. Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Sunscreen: SPF 100+
This sunscreen has an SPF of 100+ and is water-resistant for up to 80 minutes.
Its lightweight, non-greasy formula is easily absorbed into the skin, leaving no white cast or sticky residue.
This sunscreen is suitable for all skin types and is especially recommended for people with oily or acne-prone skin.
However, some people may find this sunscreen to be too drying or not moisturizing enough, and it may not be suitable for people with dry skin.
5. Australian Gold Botanical Sunscreen Mineral Lotion: SPF 50
This mineral-based sunscreen is formulated with natural ingredients like eucalyptus, kakadu plum, and red algae, which provide antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits.
Its lightweight, non-greasy formula is easily absorbed into the skin, leaving no white cast or sticky residue.
This sunscreen is suitable for all skin types and is especially recommended for people with sensitive or acne-prone skin.
However, some people may find this sunscreen to be too fragrant or not moisturizing enough, and it may not be suitable for people with dry skin.
6. Supergoop! Everyday Sunscreen: SPF 50
This lightweight, oil-free sunscreen has a silky texture that is easily absorbed into the skin.
Its key ingredients include avobenzone, homosalate, and octisalate, which provide broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection.
This sunscreen is suitable for all skin types and is especially recommended for people with normal to oily skin.
Its non-greasy formula makes it a great choice for daily use under makeup.
However, some people may find this sunscreen to be too expensive, and it may not be suitable for people with dry or sensitive skin.
7. Blue Lizard Australian Sunscreen: SPF 30+
This mineral-based sunscreen is formulated with zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, which provide broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection.
Its thick, creamy texture is easy to apply and is water-resistant for up to 80 minutes.
This sunscreen is suitable for all skin types and is especially recommended for people with sensitive or allergy-prone skin.
Its unique packaging, which turns blue in the presence of UV light, makes it a fun and educational choice for kids.
However, some people may find this sunscreen to be too heavy or leave a white cast on darker skin tones.
8. Coppertone Sport Continuous Sunscreen Spray: SPF 50
This spray sunscreen is water-resistant for up to 80 minutes and provides broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection.
Its lightweight, non-greasy formula is easy to apply and is suitable for all skin types.
Its continuous spray feature allows for quick and easy application, making it a great choice for people on-the-go.
However, some people may find this sunscreen to be too drying or not provide enough coverage, and it may not be suitable for people with sensitive skin.
9. Alba Botanica Hawaiian Sunscreen: SPF 50
This mineral-based sunscreen is formulated with natural ingredients like aloe vera, chamomile, and green tea, which provide antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits.
Its lightweight, non-greasy formula is easily absorbed into the skin, leaving no white cast or sticky residue.
This sunscreen is suitable for all skin types and is especially recommended for people with sensitive or allergy-prone skin. Its tropical scent makes it a fun and refreshing choice for summer.
However, some people may find this sunscreen to be too fragrant or not provide enough coverage, and it may not be suitable for people with oily skin.
10. Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Sunscreen: SPF 100+
This sunscreen is designed to be lightweight, fast-absorbing, and non-greasy. It has a high SPF level of 100+ and provides broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection.
Its formula is oil-free and water-resistant, making it a great choice for outdoor activities like skiing. It is suitable for all skin types and can be used on both the face and body.
However, some people may find this sunscreen to be too drying or leave a white cast on darker skin tones.
Conclusion
Skiing involves spending several hours exposed to the sun’s harmful UV rays. Therefore, it’s essential to choose the right sunscreen that provides broad-spectrum protection, has a high SPF, is water-resistant, and is non-greasy and quick-drying.
Remember to reapply sunscreen every two hours or after sweating or water exposure. With the right sunscreen, you can protect your skin while enjoying a day on the slopes.
