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Why You Need to Wear Sunscreen in the Mountains
In this post, we'll explore why sunscreen is a must-have item for any mountain adventure and why choosing the right sunscreen is paramount.
Dropping In:
As outdoor enthusiasts, we often associate sunscreen with trips to the beach or sunny days spent out on the bay. However, the importance of sunscreen extends far beyond coastal adventures—it’s equally crucial to wear sunscreen in the mountains.
Here in Maine we know whether you’re hiking, skiing, or simply enjoying the breathtaking views, wearing sunscreen in the mountains is essential for safeguarding your skin against the sun’s harmful rays.
In this post, we’ll explore why sunscreen is a must-have item for any mountain adventure and why choosing the right sunscreen is important.
High Altitude, Intensified Sun Exposure:
One of the key reasons why sunscreen is indispensable in the mountains is the heightened sun exposure at higher altitudes.
As you ascend, the atmosphere becomes thinner, resulting in increased UV radiation. In fact, UV increases by 2% for every 1000 feet in elevation. That adds up quickly, even here in Maine where the highest highest point is Katahdin at just over 5000 feet, and helps explain why Utah has the highest incidence of new melanoma cases per capita in the United States.
This increase means that even on overcast days, you’re at risk of sunburn and skin damage on exposed areas. Applying sunscreen with at least a Broad Spectrum 30 SPF rating is essential to protect your skin from these intensified UV rays.
This is especially true of your face which can tend to be exposed even when you are layered up due to cooler weather and variable conditions. Using a specialized sunscreen for the face with moisturizing properties can help prevent dryness and protect delicate facial skin from sunburn.
Reflection from Snow and Ice:
If you’re heading out in the winter for a day on slopes or out in the backcountry sunscreen becomes even more critical. Snow and ice can reflect up to 80% of the sun’s UV rays. Effectively doubling your exposure to sunlight as the incoming rays catch you from above, and the reflected rays from another angle dependent on exposure.
This phenomenon can significantly increase the risk of sunburn and skin damage. As the winter turns to spring and you begin to shed layers you should be sure to diligently use sunscreen on all exposed areas.
Importance of Water-Resistant Formulas:
In the mountains, weather conditions can change rapidly, and you may find yourself sweating during vigorous outdoor activities or encountering unexpected rain showers. To ensure optimal protection, opt for a water-resistant sunscreen formula that can withstand perspiration and moisture.
Our sunscreen uses beeswax for this purpose and is continually tested here in Maine to ensure durable and water-resistant properties. It can be an excellent choice for mountain enthusiasts seeking reliable sun protection in variable weather conditions.
Protecting the Environment:
When selecting sunscreen for mountain adventures, it’s crucial to choose products that are environmentally friendly if you care about helping to protect the environment.
Certain chemical ingredients commonly found in sunscreen can harm fragile ecosystems, particularly aquatic environments. Look for reef-safe and biodegradable sunscreen options that minimize environmental impact while providing effective sun protection for you and your family.
You can also help the earth by purchasing a product packaged in metal to help minimize your use of plastic, especially the flexible plastic tubes which are not recyclable. In the United States we only recycle about 10% of the plastic waste with a staggering 77% being landfilled or incinerated due to their incompatibility with recycling infrastructure.
Check out our post on why we choose aluminum for our product here.
Long-lasting Effects of Sun Damage:
Exposure to UV radiation can have long-lasting effects on your skin, including premature aging, wrinkles, and an increased risk of skin cancer. Even a single severe sunburn can significantly damage the skin’s DNA, potentially leading to skin cancer later in life.
By wearing sunscreen consistently during your mountain adventures, you’re not only preventing immediate sunburn but also reducing the risk of long-term skin damage and health complications.
Remember that 7 of the top 10 states for skin cancer have mountainous terrain with Utah leading the nation. There are numerous reasons for this but one sure way to reduce it would be for folks to wear sunscreen more diligently when they are outside!
Summing up:
Wearing sunscreen in the mountains is not just a recommendation—it’s a necessity for maintaining healthy skin and minimizing the risk of sun-related health issues. Whether you’re scaling summits, exploring alpine trails, or carving through fresh powder, protecting your skin from high-altitude sun exposure should be a top priority.
By choosing the right sunscreen and applying it diligently, you can enjoy your mountain adventures safely while preserving the health and vitality of your skin for years to come.
We hope that sunscreen is Allswell Goods, which was born and bred in the mountains and oceans of Maine, with the goal of protecting you and your planet!