Save Your Skin While Skiing This Season

Skiing is relaxing and refreshing. The crisp alpine air blowing through your hair, warm sun kissing your skin, and an adrenaline rush like no other. But skiers must also watch out for wind-burn and sun-burn. With increased exposure to the elements and rising elevation levels, snow lovers are at an increased risk for altitude sickness among other ailments and skin irritations. 

The most common mistake skiers make is not applying sunscreen before hitting the slopes. The cold temperatures and snowscape trick the mind into believing you are not in the environment for sunburns and irritations but at such high elevation levels, you are in fact at an increased risk. To avoid burning and blistering on your bright face, be sure to apply SPF 30 (minimum) at least fifteen minutes before hitting the slopes. If you do return home and find that your face is a little sun-kissed, you can apply aloe vera or a cold towel and some vitamin c serum. As always, staying hydrated aids in rapid healing as well. 

For windburn, the best way to prevention technique is to limit the amount of exposed skin. Be sure to bundle up with gloves, scarves, face masks, hats and ear warmers in addition to a warm coat and ski pants. If you are exposed to the elements and feel that your skin is windburnt, be sure to avoid applying any chemical treatments to the burned areas and be mindful of the skincare products you typically use. You will instead want to keep the burned skin clean and moist. This can be done by applying Vaseline or any other gentle, healing salve. A personal favorite here at The Edge is Cloverine Salve which can be purchased at most drugstore stores or Amazon! 

Stay safe and ski well this season— your skin will thank you!