When most people pack for a ski trip, they focus on helmets, thermals and goggles, but the real essential is high-quality SPF. Snowy mountains create some of the strongest UV conditions you’ll experience all year, making sun protection products with combined SPF and moisturiser benefits a must-have on every winter sports holiday.

Whether you’re a seasoned skier or heading to the Alps for the first time, understanding which SPF level is recommended for skiing in bright snow can make the difference between a healthy winter glow and a painful ski burn.

In this guide, we break down why UV exposure is so intense at altitude, the best SPF for skiing in snowy conditions, and how to choose top rated ski sunscreens with high SPF for sensitive skin.

So why do you burn while skiing?

Many skiers assume cold temperatures mean low UV risk, but the opposite is true. Here’s why:

1. UV intensity increases with altitude

For every 1,000 metres you climb, UV radiation rises by around 10–12%. That means ski resorts at 2,000–3,000 metres expose your skin to far stronger UV levels than at sea level, even in winter.

2. Snow acts like a mirror

Snow reflects up to 90% of UV rays, effectively doubling your exposure. Instead of UV hitting your skin from one direction, it’s coming from above and bouncing up from the ground.

3. Cold temperatures are misleading

Wind and snow make your skin feel cool, so you may not realise you're burning. This “cold-weather masking effect” means people reapply SPF less often than they should.

4. Longer outdoor exposure

Full ski days add up to hours of constant UV exposure. Even cloudy days at altitude can still cause significant sun damage.

All these factors explain why you burn while skiing so quickly, often faster and worse than on a summer beach holiday.

Which SPF level is recommend for skiing in bright snow?

Dermatologists and us suncare specialists agree; skiing requires high-level, broad-spectrum SPF. So, here’s what to look for:

• SPF 30 minimum, but SPF 50 or SPF 50+ is the gold standard
• Broad-spectrum protection against both UVA and UVB
• Photo-stable formulas that won’t degrade under intense UV
• Water-resistant and sweat-resistant textures suitable for active use
• Gentle, non-irritating formulas. Especially for altitude, where skin is more prone to dryness and sensitivity

The best SPF for skiing in snowy conditions

When choosing the best SPF for skiing in snowy conditions, consider the unique challenges of winter sports and what works best for your skin. Here are a few Ultrasun SPF recommendations for your skiing trip:

Photo Age Control Fluid SPF50 

This is great for defence against signs of photo ageing caused by UV exposure and is super hydrating, without leaving your skin looking or feeling greasy. The easy nozzle makes application a dream and your skin is protected with a 95% UVA filter.

Face SPF50+

Our classic and most-loved SPF formula, it has broad-spectrum protection against UVA, UVB, Infra-red and Blue Light so you’re covered on all bases. We’ve added antioxidant Ectoin®, helping prevent sun-induced signs of ageing and keeping your skin smooth and youthful!

Face Fluid Anti-Pollution SPF50+ 

Lightweight, non-greasy and perfect for protecting your skin against environmental aggressors as well as UV rays. It glides onto the skin, is water-resistant and kind to the skin!

Top up with Lip Protection SPF50 

Nourish your lips with a blend of Shea Butter, Argan Oil and Vitamin E, alongside high UV protection. Easy to slip into pockets and re-apply on the slopes!

Top up with Sun Stick SPF50

This is a great option for those easily missed areas, such as the bridge of the nose, tops of the ears and cheekbones! Simply swipe on and the non-greasy formula provides full solar-spectrum protection in a mess-free application.

Top up with UV Face & Scalp Mist SPF50

Our super fine and lightweight mist is great for topping up your SPF application and focusing on areas such as around the hairline and scalp. It can be used over the top of makeup and won’t leave any greasiness or white cast.

Combine your sun protection SPF and moisturiser

Using a multifunctional formula is ideal for skiing, and perfect if you’re travelling light too! Here are few more reasons why multi-functional products are ideal:

• Save time during busy mornings before heading to the lifts
• Offer consistent hydration throughout the day
• Support the skin barrier in harsh weather
• Reduce the need for layering multiple products (which can pill under helmets and goggles)

This is especially important at altitude, where dry air accelerates dehydration and makes SPF reapplication more essential.

How to Apply SPF Correctly While Skiing

Even the best SPF only works when applied properly. Keep these tips in mind:

1. Apply at least 20-30 minutes before heading outside

This allows your sunscreen to bind to the skin before cold temperatures or wind hit your face.

2. Top-up every 2 hours

Snow reflection and wind reduce staying power and if you’re sweating, reapply more frequently. We have our brilliant top-up options which are easy to apply and make it quick and swift.

3. Don’t forget high-burn areas

These include:

• Nose
• Under eyes
• Ears
• Chin
• Neck
• Hairline

4. Use SPF lip protection

Lips burn quickly on the slopes, so choose a high-SPF lip balm and reapply throughout the day. We have our Lip Protection SPF50 or SPF30 in nourishing formulas, perfect for the job.

Skiing exposes your skin to some of the harshest sun conditions on the planet, sometimes even more intense than many summer destinations. That’s why the best SPF for skiing in snowy conditions is always a high-protection, broad-spectrum formula designed for sensitive, active skin.

Before you hit the mountains, arm yourself with top rated ski sunscreens with high SPF for sensitive skin, ideally skin sun protection products with combined SPF and moisturiser. Your future skin will thank you.