The Ultimate Ski Beauty Guide: How to Stay Glam While Hitting the Slopes

As ski season rolls around, it’s time to pack your bags and get ready for snowy adventures. While you’re making sure you’ve got your thermal gear and skis packed, don’t forget about your beauty essentials. Skiing at high altitudes, with the cold, the sun, and the wind, can take a toll on your skin and hair. But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered with the ultimate ski beauty guide to keep you glowing from the slopes to après-ski.

1. Protect Your Skin: Sunscreen is a Must

Sunscreen is often an afterthought when it comes to ski trips, but it’s one of the most important products to bring. While you’re skiing, you’re exposed to more harmful UV rays due to the high altitude and the snow. Snow actually reflects sunlight, intensifying your exposure, which increases the risk of sunburn and skin damage. Even on overcast days, you should apply sunscreen to your face, neck, ears, and lips.

Dr. Paul Banwell, a dermatologist, reminds us, "You’ll also want to be sure to protect the delicate skin around your eyes. This area is thinner and more vulnerable to UV damage, so it’s crucial to apply sunscreen there too, along with wearing ski goggles for added protection."

So, which sunscreen should you pack? Dermatologists recommend broad-spectrum sunscreens with SPF 30 or higher. Here are a few of our top picks:

La Roche-Posay Anthelios Sunscreen SPF 50+: Lightweight yet protective, perfect for all-day wear.

Anessa Perfect UV Sunscreen SPF 50+: A water-resistant sunscreen that stays on even in sweat or snow.

2. Skincare: Hydration is Key

The dry, cold air at high altitudes can leave your skin feeling parched and irritated. To prevent this, keep your skin hydrated with the right skincare products. Dr. Sindhu Siddiqi, a beauty doctor, recommends using hydrating serums and thick moisturizers that help your skin stay protected from harsh weather. Ingredients like hyaluronic acid, ceramides, and niacinamide are perfect for keeping your skin smooth and nourished.

Here’s the routine to follow:

Hydrating Serum: Use a serum with hyaluronic acid to lock in moisture.

Thick Moisturizer: Follow up with a rich cream to seal in the hydration and prevent moisture loss.

Night Cream: After a day of skiing, treat your skin to a thicker night cream or oil to replenish your skin overnight.

Top Moisturizer Picks:

Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Cream: Ideal for dry climates, it locks in moisture without feeling heavy.

Drunk Elephant Protini Polypeptide Cream: This rich cream repairs and hydrates the skin, making it perfect for post-ski recovery.

3. Don’t Forget Your Lips and Hair

Your lips are particularly vulnerable in the cold, so make sure to apply a nourishing lip balm throughout the day. Look for lip balms with SPF to double up on sun protection. For your hair, the harsh winds and cold can leave it dry and frizzy, so use a good leave-in conditioner and keep a hat or ski helmet on to protect your locks.

Lip Care Recommendations:

Fresh Sugar Lip Treatment SPF 15: Hydrates and protects your lips, leaving them soft and smooth.

Burt’s Bees Beeswax Lip Balm: A classic favorite to protect lips from dryness and cracking.

For your hair:

Ouai Leave-In Conditioner: It helps nourish and protect your hair from the elements, leaving it soft and manageable.

Moroccanoil Treatment: Apply a small amount to your ends to keep your hair smooth and hydrated.

4. Should You Wear Makeup?

Makeup and skiing might not always seem like a match made in heaven, but if you prefer to wear makeup, there are a few tips to keep it looking fresh all day. Stick with a light base that provides coverage without clogging your pores. A tinted moisturizer with SPF is a great option for a natural glow. Avoid heavy foundations that may slide off in the snow or under your ski goggles. For your eyes, opt for waterproof mascara and a subtle eyeshadow that won’t smudge.

Recommended Makeup:

Glossier Perfecting Skin Tint: A lightweight, breathable tinted moisturizer for a dewy finish.

NARS Radiant Creamy Concealer: To cover any dark circles from early mornings on the slopes.

Too Faced Better Than Sex Waterproof Mascara: For lashes that hold up against the cold and snow.

5. Extra Tips for Ski Beauty

Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate: Skiing in cold weather can dehydrate your skin, so be sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day. Keeping your skin hydrated from the inside out is key to maintaining a healthy glow.

Gentle Exfoliation: After your ski trip, treat your skin to a gentle exfoliation to remove dead skin cells and bring back that fresh glow.

Face Mist: Carry a refreshing facial mist in your bag to give your skin a quick boost whenever it feels dry or tight.

Skiing in Style

Skiing is all about having fun on the slopes, but it’s important to protect and pamper your skin, hair, and lips while you’re at it. From sunscreen and moisturizers to lip balms and makeup, these beauty essentials will help you stay protected and glowing throughout your ski trip. Whether you're going for après-ski cocktails or relaxing in a cozy lodge, your ski beauty routine will have you looking and feeling fabulous.