Winter sun
Although it may be winter in the UK, sun protection is still vital if you are travelling to warmer countries. In many destinations, the seasons differ from ours, and ultraviolet (UV) levels remain high throughout the year. Make sure you follow a sun safe behaviour.
Visit our dedicated section - Sunscreens
Stay sun safe on the slopes
Sunscreen is not just for the beach. Even in winter, the UVB rays at skiing altitudes are strong enough to cause sunburn. Snow and ice can reflect up to 80–90% of UV rays, so your sun exposure increases during outdoor activities like skiing and snowboarding.
The intensity of the sun is greater at higher altitudes. Always apply a sun protection product with a high sun protection factor (SPF). Do not forget to cover areas that are often missed, such as the ears and nose, and use a lip balm with SPF.
Wearing protective clothing is also crucial for snow sports. Always wear a hat or helmet to cover your head and protect your eyes with sunglasses or goggles that block UV rays.
Don’t underestimate the strength of the winter sun when you are abroad or in the mountains—stay safe in the sun and enjoy your winter break!
Further Information
For more details on how to stay safe in the sun, visit the dedicated section:
Top tips for keeping children safe in the sun
