Summer's Here: Your June Sun-Protection Reset
The UV index is peaking, so it's time to level up your routine.
UV intensity increases roughly 4-5% per 1,000 feet of elevation.
Climb 1,000 feet and the sun hits noticeably harder, so the Skin Cancer Foundation's 4-5% rule means altitude getaways need more protection than you'd think.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need sunscreen in winter?
Yes. UVA rays — which cause aging and contribute to skin cancer — stay fairly constant year-round and pass through clouds and glass, and snow reflects up to 80% of UV. Daily broad-spectrum sunscreen on exposed skin is recommended in winter, especially for snow sports.
Does snow increase UV exposure?
Significantly. Fresh snow reflects up to 80% of UV rays, effectively hitting your skin twice — from the sky and from the ground. Combined with altitude on the slopes, this makes winter sun protection of the face, ears, lips and eyes essential.
Is sunscreen necessary on cloudy days?
Yes. Up to 80% of UV rays pass through clouds, and UVA — the deeper-penetrating, aging wavelength — stays fairly constant regardless of cloud cover. A cool, overcast day can still deliver enough UV to damage skin, so daily broad-spectrum sunscreen is recommended.
r/Skiing: 'Why did I get burned skiing on a cloudy day?'
Sources & citations
- Skin Cancer Champions, '10 Essential UV Risks to Be Aware of During Winter Months'
- skincancerchampions.org ↗