Winter sports

At altitude there is less atmosphere to filter UV rays. With every 1000m , UV intensity increases by 10-12%. So your skin can burn more quickly on the slopes than at sea level.

Snow reflects around 85% of the sun's UV rays so you may burn in unusual places. Look out for the underside of your chin and your ears in particular.

Up to 80% of the sun's UV rays penetrate light clouds, and what gets through can reflect back and forth between the clouds and the snow. So even if it's cloudy it's important to protect yourself.

Cover up
The best way to protect yourself is by covering up with clothing. Try wearing a long-sleeved jacket with a zip-up collar, hat and gloves.

Protect your eyes
Wear wraparound sunglasses or goggles that offer 100% protection from UV. Most come with information about their UV protection, but check in the shop if you are not sure.

Goggles may be better for protecting small children's eyes as they are less likely to fall off at ski school!

Sunscreen
Factor 15+ sunscreen is handy for protecting the skin on your face that is still exposed. Follow these tips:

• Apply sunscreen before hitting the slopes every morning and after lunch
• Remember to reapply every 2 hours or so, particularly if you're likely to sweat it off
• Look out for handy little tubes of sunscreen that fit easily in a ski pocket
• Not sure which sunscreen to pick? Look for one that protects from UVA and UVB and is factor 15 or more