The Best SPF for Skiing: How to Protect Your Skin on the Slopes
- Rebecca Nicholson
- 2 days ago
- 2 min read
When we think of sun damage, summer holidays usually come to mind. But if you’re heading to the slopes this ski season, your SPF is just as important—if not more so—than on a beach break.
Between high altitude, snow glare and long days outdoors, ski holidays can be brutal on the skin. UV exposure increases by around 10–12% for every 1,000 metres of altitude, while snow reflects up to 80% of UV rays, meaning your face is being hit from above and below.
Add freezing temperatures, wind burn and dry alpine air into the mix, and suddenly your usual sunscreen just won’t cut it.
So, what should you actually be using?
Below, the best SPFs for ski season—formulas that protect, hydrate and sit well under goggles and helmets.
What to Look for in a Ski-Ready SPF
Before we get into product picks, here’s what matters when skiing:
SPF 30–50+ with high UVA protection
Broad-spectrum (UVA + UVB)
Cold-weather friendly textures (no cracking or pilling)
Hydrating ingredients to combat wind and dehydration
Sweat- and water-resistance
Non-greasy finishes that won’t fog goggles or slide into eyes
Bonus points if it doubles as skincare.
Best SPFs for Ski Season
☀️ La Roche-Posay Anthelios Invisible Fluid SPF50+
A cult favourite for good reason. Ultra-light, fast-absorbing and exceptionally protective, this formula is ideal for long ski days where you need serious UVA defence without heaviness.
Why it’s perfect for skiing:
High UVA protection (crucial at altitude)
Won’t sting eyes or feel greasy
Layers well under makeup or balaclavas
❄️ Ultra Violette Supreme Screen SPF50+
Think of this as skincare and sunscreen in one. Rich enough to protect against wind burn, but refined enough to wear all day.
Why it’s perfect for skiing:
Moisturising without slipping
Acts like a hydrating primer
Ideal for dry, sensitive winter skin
🏔 Heliocare 360° Gel Oil-Free SPF50+
If you’re prone to breakouts or prefer a lighter feel, this is a standout. Don’t let the “oil-free” label fool you—it still protects beautifully against harsh conditions.
Why it’s perfect for skiing:
Lightweight but resilient
Excellent for combination or oily skin
Strong antioxidant protection
🧴 Sisley Sunleÿa Anti-Aging SPF30
For those who want luxury skincare and protection, Sisley’s alpine-approved formula focuses on preventing dehydration, pigmentation and premature ageing.
Why it’s perfect for skiing:
Anti-ageing benefits
Nourishing yet refined texture
Ideal for mature or dehydrated skin
👄 Sun Bum SPF Lip Balm
One of the most overlooked ski essentials. Lips burn fast in cold, high-altitude conditions.
Why it’s essential:
Prevents cracking and sun damage
Easy to reapply on chair lifts
No mirror required
How to Apply SPF on the Slopes (Properly)
Apply 15–20 minutes before heading out
Use two fingers’ worth for face and neck
Don’t forget nose, lips, ears and under the chin
Reapply every 2 hours—especially at lunch
Keep a travel-size SPF in your jacket pocket
The Bottom Line
Ski season sun damage is real—and often worse than summer exposure. Investing in a high-quality SPF designed to withstand altitude, cold and wind isn’t optional; it’s essential.
Because glowing skin looks just as good après-ski as it does on the slopes.
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