Skincare Tips for Winter Sports Enthusiasts

If you’re like most winter sports enthusiasts, you’re tuning up your gear before the first snowflake falls. While you’re at it, do the prep to protect your skin. From the right moisturizer to a broad-spectrum sunscreen, using the appropriate skincare is as important as finding the right equipment.

We asked Christina Lee Chung, MD, an avid skier and board-certified dermatologist at Schweiger Dermatology Group in Pennsylvania, the best protocol for keeping skin moist, protected and glowing while enjoying winter sports.

Reflect On It

While the sun’s rays seem less intense in winter, “UV radiation is absolutely still present and the reflection off the snow and ice multiplies your exposure levels,” says Dr. Chung. Snow covered surfaces reflect up to 80% of UV rays, according to the Skin Cancer Foundation. Imagine the sun hitting you with twice the force. According to Dr. Chung, “You can still get a nasty sunburn, even on cloudy days.” Altitude matters too. “If you’re on a mountain at 10,000 feet, you are way closer to the sun than at sea level,” she adds.

Up Your Product Game

Winter skincare is quite different from regular skincare, according to Dr. Chung. “The key is to protect your skin, always from the sun, but also from the harsh weather conditions in the winter.” She explains, “That means the wind and cold — both of which can wreak havoc on your skin.” Choose lotions, balms and lip protection with the right ingredients. “It can make all the difference,” she adds.

Ingredients That Matter

Think sealing in the moisture as opposed to just adding hydration. “Moisturization is a no-brainer, but emollients are super important in the winter because they help to seal in moisture and prevent water loss through the skin,” says Dr. Chung. For a moisture boost, look for ingredients that will hydrate and nourish dry skin including:

• Shea butter
• Cocoa butter
• Glycerin
• Hyaluronic acid
• Ceramides

“The best emollients are by far petrolatum, lanolin and mineral oil,” she says. “Be sure to apply when your skin is still damp after showering to keep it incredibly soft and supple.”

Après-Ski

Soaking in a hot tub at the end of a long day on the slopes is enticing. “I hate to be the party pooper, but I recommend minimizing your time in the hot tub,” says Dr. Chung. “It is so tempting after a day of snow sports to warm up and relax those muscles, but there’s nothing that strips your skin of oils more than hot water, which leads to dry, itchy skin.” She advises taking a warm — not hot — shower, using a moisturizing fragrance-free bar soap and applying a thick layer of lotion or emollient as soon as you come out.

Take a Crack at It

Sometimes thicker skin can take a beating from the cold and form fissures, or cracks, that are painful and hard to heal. “These often occur on the hands and feet due to dryness and exposure to the cold,” Dr. Chung says. “Apply a thick moisturizer or ointment several times a day and consider using a product with occlusives like petrolatum or beeswax to lock in moisture.” She also suggests wearing gloves and warm socks to help protect your skin.

Extreme Conditions

When the weather is harsh, your skin can get injured from windburn and frostbite. Dr. Chung notes that preventing windburn is about protecting your skin with a physical barrier. “That barrier can be something like a scarf, neckie or balaclava, or it can be with a barrier cream,” she says. “The best topical barrier is a thick layer of mineral sunscreen but, honestly, diaper paste would work too!” Frostbite, on the other hand, is a much more serious condition because it literally freezes your skin. “If you are out in the elements and you experience numbness, tingling or notice a white or grayish appearance, you must seek medical attention immediately,” she advises.

Bundle Up

In addition to using the proper skincare products, the Skin Cancer Foundation recommends following these tips to protect against UV rays and exposure to the cold.

• Gators, balaclavas, hats and gloves: Clothing creates an effective barrier.
• Sports sunglasses or goggles: They offer 99% greater UV protection and have wraparound or large frames to protect your eyes and the skin around your eyes.
• Helmets for the slopes; hats as a backup: Helmets keep you warm and protect against impact. Hats keep the head and ears toasty and protected from the sun.

What’s in Her Pocket?

Wonder what Dr. Chung always has in her ski jacket pocket? “A sample-size sunscreen with SPF of 30+ and moisturizing cream. I don’t ever leave home without them.” Ask your dermatology provider to hook you up if you are headed to the mountains.

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Winter Skincare at Schweiger Dermatology Group

Our providers will discuss the most effective ways to protect your skin against the elements, create a customized skincare routine and address any issues that may occur.

To make an appointment, call or text (844) DERM-DOC / (844) 337-6362 or book your appointment online.