Your worst sunburn could happen in Winter
When we think of sunscreen, we often associate it with the warm, sunny days of summer spent outdoors. However, protecting our skin from the sun's harmful rays is a year-round necessity, especially for people like us who revel in outdoor pursuits.
Our co-founder, Mark, recalls his worst sunburn ever in Mayrhofen in Austria skiing. His nose turned to a crisp shell after day 1 and he had to ski the rest of the week with a handkerchief covering his whole face to avoid sun exposure.
While there is stacks of information around how UV rays can penetrate through the clouds on a regular, overcast winter day and harm the skin, we were shaken up to learn the intensity of the sun when it comes to reflection and high altitude:
1 hour at sea level at 9:00 a.m could be the same as;
15 minutes at 1:00 p.m; which could be the same as
1 minute at 1:00 p.m. at high altitude with reflecting snow
Did you know that the reason Mark’s burn was so bad on that winter day, is because the snow can reflect up to 80% of UV radiation, leading to a higher risk of sunburn and skin damage? Pair that with the depleted Ozone layer we have in New Zealand and it’s not hard to get burned. The difference in intensity is insane, and helps to explain why we have to be vigilant in topping up the sunscreen when we pause for a break during a big day on the hill. Crusty red lips and rosy cheeks are not a cool look at Apres.
While a light SPF is important to apply everyday during winter, we recommend using performance grade products when you're out on the hill this winter, and be sure to reapply every couple of hours. ZOOP’s Performance Sunscreen range is a must have for those bluebird days, with the Snow to Surf Protective Balm being your best friend if you know you’re going to work up a sweat.
As you embark on your mountain mission, let Mark's nose be a reminder to get ahead of that alpine sunburn by:
Applying SPF when you’re driving up the hill
Applying SPF whenever you’re taking a break
If you can get that right, you’ll be set up for not only an epic day in the thick of snowy terrain - you’ll also look and feel epic when you’re cracking open that cold apres-ski beer.
