An issue with sunscreen application is that it can be a messy hassle – with the active ingredients in many products damaging expensive gloves and smearing lenses, impairing performance and can be dangerous. This provides the perfect excuse to skip or delay reapplication during the day. The problem? Nearly all sunscreens – including once-a-day formulations – can easily sweat off or be wiped away, leaving skin vulnerable.
The ‘reapply rule’ is simple: reapply sunscreen every two hours or every time you take a break. Now, thanks to Solex, you can do this quickly and easily without removing your gloves or touching your goggles. Designed for and used by savvy sports enthusiasts, Solex SPF30 features a patented, innovative applicator tailored for active lifestyles. It allows for quick, mess-free, non-sticky, and even application to all exposed areas, ensuring your skincare routine remains uncompromised.
Solex works closely with The Melanoma Fund, a charity that provides trusted guidance and education for outdoor sports enthusiasts, helping keep sun protection front of mind. Michelle Baker, the charity’s CEO, emphasises the importance of sun safety on the slopes, stating, “It’s easy to overlook skin protection while enjoying winter sports, but taking the proper precautions will help you avoid nasty surprises in the future. Part of our work is to wipe away the excuses around non-application, which is why we work with Solex.”
5 Sun Safety Tips for Snow Sport Lovers
- Start with a strong base layer: Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher before heading out. Don’t forget often-missed spots like your ears, under your chin, nose and neck.
- Reapply regularly: Follow the ‘reapply rule’ – every few hours or whenever you stop for a break – to stay protected throughout the day.
- Protect your eyes and lips: UV rays can damage your eyes, so wear high-quality, UV-blocking goggles or sunglasses. Use a zinc lip balm to keep your lips safe from sunburn.
- Cover up: Your helmet doesn’t just protect your skull; it also protects your scalp and ears. Wear with a balaclava to reduce sun exposure. If skiing later in the season, base layers with UV protection adds an extra layer of safety which helps when stripping off during lunch breaks.
- Be mindful of altitude and reflection: UV radiation increases at high altitudes and the snow reflects this back, meaning you’re getting hit with UV from all angles, so staying protected is crucial.
For further guidance, visit the Melanoma Fund’s Sunguarding Sport advice here: Sunguarding-Snowsport – Melanoma Fund UK. Ski Club members receive a 10% discount on Solex purchases, find out more here.