Ski Trips & Sun Protection: Why SPF on the Slopes Is Non-Negotiable (and How to Prevent Dry Winter Skin)

Crisp white slopes, bright blue skies, colourful ski suits, and toasting on a sunny mountain terrace after your last run: winter sports season is in full swing! Yet anyone who hits the slopes regularly knows the feeling all too well: by the end of the day, your face feels tight, parched, and sometimes even sunburnt. How does that happen when fresh mountain air is supposed to be so good for you?

In this journal post, we dive into what actually happens to your skin at high altitude, why wearing a high SPF while skiing or snowboarding is just as vital as on a tropical beach, and which natural sunscreens perform best in the snow.

Why does your skin dry out so quickly in the mountains?

It might feel counterintuitive, but alpine environments put your skin barrier through quite a workout. Here are the 4 main culprits behind dry, chapped winter sports skin:

1. Cold temperatures & biting wind: As you carve down the mountain at speed, icy wind strips away your skin's natural lipids and surface moisture at a rapid pace.
2. Low humidity: Freezing air simply holds far less moisture. As a result, water inside your skin evaporates much faster into the dry mountain atmosphere.
3. Intense UV radiation & snow reflection: Not only are you closer to the sun at high altitude (UV intensity increases by roughly 10% for every 1,000 metres of elevation), but snow also acts like a giant mirror. Fresh snow reflects up to 80% of UV rays, hitting your face from both above and below, accelerating sun damage and dehydration.
4. Extreme temperature shifts: Stepping from sub-zero outdoor temperatures straight into a warmly heated chalet or mountain restaurant puts constant stress on your skin, leaving your skin barrier out of balance. Want to know more? Read our guide to supporting your skin barrier.

3 essential tips for protected, glowing slope skin

1. Switch to a richer, nourishing formula

Leave lightweight, water-based gels at home during winter. Opt instead for a richer moisturiser or a mineral sunscreen formulated with nourishing plant oils and butters. This creates a breathable protective shield that locks in hydration and defends against windburn. Prone to dry skin or eczema? Also check out our tips for caring for eczema-prone skin during the colder months.

2. Apply a natural SPF 50 generously (and don't forget your lips!)

Because cold weather mildly numbs the skin, you often won't notice your nose and cheeks burning until you look in the mirror that evening. Always wear a broad-spectrum mineral sunscreen with SPF 30 or preferably SPF 50, and pay extra attention to your lips, ears, and jawline. Reapply every two hours, especially after a sweaty run or during your lunch break in the sun.

3. Hydrate from the inside out

You naturally feel less thirsty in cold weather than in summer, yet high-altitude exercise causes significant fluid loss. Sip water or herbal tea consistently throughout the day to keep both your body and complexion hydrated.

The best natural sunscreens for skiing & snowboarding at Nourished

Mineral sunscreens powered by non-nano zinc oxide are ideal for alpine adventures: they provide immediate broad-spectrum UVA and UVB protection without synthetic chemical filters that can irritate sensitive winter skin. Here are our top picks for your ski jacket or backpack:

For your jacket pocket (easy chairlift top-ups)

• Little Urchin Natural Clear Zinc Sunscreen SPF 50+ Stick (20g): The ultimate slope-side essential. This mess-free, travel-friendly stick slips effortlessly into your ski pocket and glides smoothly over your nose, cheekbones, and lips without freezing your fingers. (Also available in a subtle Medium Tint.)

For your face (with or without a subtle tint)

• Little Urchin Natural Clear Zinc Face Sunscreen SPF 50+: A silky, transparent zinc formula created specifically for the face, packed with calming antioxidants to soothe and shield against moisture loss.
• Little Urchin Tinted Face Sunscreen Light-Medium SPF 50+: Want an even, healthy glow on the slopes without wearing makeup? This tinted SPF 50+ blends seamlessly into the skin.
• INIKA Organic Natural Sunscreen SPF 50+ & Tinted Natural Sunscreen SPF 50+: Luxurious, 100% natural facial protection enriched with rosehip oil, green tea, and sunflower seed oil. Their rich, comforting textures make them a dream for drier winter skin.

For the whole family & all-day mountain adventures

• Nourished Daily Face + Body Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50: Our very own bestseller! This creamy, smooth lotion rubs in effortlessly with zero white cast, is water-resistant, and works beautifully on both face and body. Travelling with family or friends? Stock up with our Daily Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50 2-Pack, 3-Pack, or the Sun Lover Pack. Discover the full Nourished Daily range.
• Little Urchin Natural Clear Zinc Sunscreen SPF 50+ & SPF 30: Available in generous 100g tubes (as well as the value Double Sunshine and Everyday Sun bundles). Its rich, water-resistant non-nano zinc formula stays put during active days in the snow.

Specially formulated for little skiers

• Little Urchin Kids Natural Sunscreen SPF 50 & Baby Natural Clear Zinc Sunscreen SPF 50: Delicate young skin needs extra care at high altitude. These ultra-gentle, fragrance-free formulas infused with cucumber, green tea, and rosehip extracts nourish and protect without stinging sensitive eyes.

Ready to hit the slopes?

With smart prep, plenty of water, and a trusty mineral SPF 50 tucked into your pocket, you can enjoy every run (and that well-earned sunny drink afterwards) worry-free. Explore our complete natural sunscreen collection and head into the mountains fully protected!