Why Snow Is a Sunburn Trap: Skiers Get Hit by UV Twice
Cold doesn't mean safe — fresh snow can nearly double your UV exposure on the slopes.
Fresh snow reflects up to 80% of UV radiation, effectively doubling exposure for anyone on the slopes.
The World Health Organization notes that fresh snow is a powerful reflector of UV and that snow-covered, high-altitude environments substantially raise exposure — which is why the Skin Cancer Foundation urges skiers to treat snow days as sun days and protect exposed skin.
Questions we get a lot
Can you really get sunburned skiing in winter?
Yes. Fresh snow reflects up to 80% of UV radiation, effectively doubling your exposure on the slopes. Cold air does not reduce UV intensity, so unprotected skin can burn quickly during a day of skiing or snowboarding.
How should skiers protect themselves from UV?
Apply broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher to all exposed skin, reapply during the day, use an SPF lip balm and wear UV-blocking goggles or sunglasses. The Skin Cancer Foundation stresses that snow days are sun days and protection should not be skipped because it's cold.
r/skiing: 'Got a brutal sunburn on a cloudy ski day — how is that even possible in winter?'