Protecting yourself from the sun in winter with SNDV and the ESi

The harms of sun exposure in winter are sometimes underestimated or misunderstood by the French. That is why the National Association of Dermatologists-Venereologists (SNDV) and the École de Ski Internationale (ESI) are launching a seasonal prevention campaign on the subject for the second year running.

« To make the effects of solar radiation in the mountains more widely known. At the same time, providing advice on how to protect oneself better and ensuring that the sun remains a friend. This is today the goal of this awareness-raising campaign.», says the union at the start of a press release.

«Contrary to popular belief, the sun’s rays are no less dangerous for the skin in winter. Although UVB rays are certainly milder at this time of year, UVA rays are, although more dangerous, still present in equal measure., the doctors continue.

The essentials

• Overexposure to the sun can lead to skin cancers. But it can also accelerate aging.
• During winter holidays in the mountains, French people tend not to protect themselves adequately from the sun.
• The National Association of Dermatologists-Venereologists (SNDV) and the École de Ski Internationale (ESI) are therefore launching a seasonal prevention campaign on this subject for the second year in a row.

Winter holidays in the mountains: several factors amplify the harmful effects of the sun

It is also important to remember that in winter in the mountains, several factors amplify the harmful effects of UV rays. This increases the risk of skin cancer and premature aging even more:

– at altitude, solar intensity is higher than in the lowlands. The atmosphere is thinner and therefore filters out less solar radiation. The amount of UV thus increases by 10% for every 1,000 metres of altitude, and their intensity is 30% higher in the mountains than at the beach.

– The reflection of the sun on fresh snow increases UV radiation by up to 80%. This figure drops to 15% on sand, 25% for sea foam and only 10% for grass or soil.

– The cold in the mountains reduces the sensation of heat felt when exposed to the sun. This often leaves a sense of safety in the face of the UV rays.

Furthermore, French people tend not to protect their skin from the sun in winter, on the pretext that the coat, trousers and snow boots would protect the entire body from the rays. «And even though skiers usually wear a helmet, UV-protective goggles and sometimes a balaclava covering the lower face, they become more vulnerable during lunch breaks on sunny terraces, where they take off layers to soak up the sunniest hours of the day», adds the National Association of Dermatologists-Venereologists (SNDV).

«Another major risk concerns cross-country skiers or snowshoe hikers, who often neglect the wearing of a helmet or face mask and thus expose their facial skin more widely to solar radiation., the health professionals further emphasise.

Also read «How to avoid accidents on skis»