Wintertime isn't a season we often equate to increased sun exposure. It's often cold and overcast during this time of year so rarely do we feel the need to lather and protect our skin with sunscreens. When we're out in the snow or on ice so much of our attention is on staying warm and avoiding turning into a snowman, but the real danger is UV light and we are exposed to it year-round.

If you thought winter weather would save you, according to the Skin Cancer Foundation, up to 80% of the suns ultraviolet rays are able to penetrate cloud cover as well as be reflected from the surface of the snow. This means that cloud cover doesn't protect us from UV and we are hit with twice the amount of UV rays when walking or skiing through the snow due to the reflection of light.

In addition, our sun exposure increases the higher we get in elevation. Since there is less atmosphere for UV light to travel through to get to our skin, the amount of UV light we receive is more than at sea level. As a rule of thumb, it is important to consider that with every 1000-ft increase in elevation, there will be an increase in sun exposure of approximately 4 - 5%.

Being proactive in the care of your skin means wearing a broad-spectrum SPF sunscreen like our Essential SPF 28 and applying it to all areas that will be exposed to the elements. Sunscreens with an SPF rating of 15 generally provide protection for 93% of the UV light shining on our skin. Make sure to reapply the sunscreen every two hours on often-missed spots like the ears, neck, and chin and use a face balm like our Essential Balm which has stronger staying power and provides better protection for your face.

Also, if it is especially bright outside or you have already received a sunburn you may want to consider using our Hydrating Tonic which has aloe vera and is a touch-free moisturizing agent. Finally, after a long day of skiing or snowboarding when the muscles are sore and you're trying to warm up, use our KG Body and Bath Oil to revitalize your skin and soothe your body.