That's La Plagne
Winter Sun Cream Essentials - Discovering the Best Sunscreen for Ski Enthusiasts
I'm Jen, a family ski expert residing in La Plagne, a French ski resort with two young kids. As someone who eats, sleeps, and breathes snow and the skiing lifestyle, I’m well-versed in the demands of winter skincare, particularly in the context of extreme temperatures. I’ve talked before about winter skincare, but today, I wanted to provide valuable insights into an often-overlooked aspect of winter preparation – choosing the right sunscreen. Although it can be -15C outside, we will still have blue skies and strong sunshine.
In this guide, I'll explore the importance of winter sun care, with a specific focus on facial protection. So join me as we navigate the world of winter sun creams and discover the best options to ensure your family's skin remains safeguarded during your winter adventure.
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Top Winter Sun creams - tried and tested in the French Alps
Now, let's focus on those faces – the money-makers that deserve some extra TLC. Here are my top picks for facial sun creams that'll have you glowing like a snow queen in your winter ski snaps.
This gem is like a whisper of protection for your face. The ultra-light fluid feels like air but packs a punch with SPF 50+. Ideal for extreme temps, it’s one that a lot of my ski mum friends swear by.
2. ISDIN Fotoprotector Fusion Fluid SPF 50+ 50ml | Facial Sun Cream
Meet the VIP of facial sun creams. This one hails from Spain, and ISDIN is well known for relying on science to build their crowd-pleasing products. I really like this one because it smooths into your skin really easily with a nice light formula. It’s SPF 50+, which I find reassuring, and layers nicely under makeup if you are planning on wearing anything.
Sensitive skin? No worries. Avene Cleanance is here to save the day with SPF50+ and a gentle touch, perfect for winter warriors with delicate skin. I’ve used this Avene sun cream a lot and also on my kids’ faces when they have had any rashes or cuts because it doesn’t irritate their skin at all.
4. Paula's Choice Advanced Sun Protection Daily Moisturiser SPF 50
Double-duty alert! I wasn’t aware of Paula’s Choice until last winter when some French friends recommended it to me, and I’m now a big fan. Paula's Choice is not only a sun shield with SPF 50 but also a daily moisturiser, which I feel is a skincare win in extreme conditions when I’m desperately looking for rehydration from all my products.
Too busy out on the slopes to stop and put sun cream on? No problem. This stick from Elizabeth Arden is your on-the-go solution for precise application. SPF50 for strong sun defense, anytime, anywhere. I nearly always have a sun cream stick like this in my salopette pocket. It’s perfect for top-ups on the chairlifts, and I also often slick it on as a lip balm to keep my lips hydrated and protected.
6. Piz Buin SPF30 Unisex Mountain Lipstick
Don't forget those lips! I recently reviewed a load of winter lip balms, and there are some fab ones out there to keep lips hydrated. But it’s also super important to keep lips protected with an SPF. The Piz Buin is the absolute go-to for most of the ski world, and the best thing is that the prices are low enough to be able to pop them in your kids’ ski jackets as well.
This Bioderma sun cream is brilliant if you want to combine your skin protection with some natural-looking coverage. As well as providing great protection on the ski slopes, it also leaves the skin with a natural glow, perfect for those chairlift Instagram snaps. I’m a big fan of efficiency getting ready in the morning, and an SPF 50 plus a touch of tint for that ski-ready look – perfect!
8. The INKEY List Polyglutamic Acid Dewy Sunscreen SPF30
INKEY is fast becoming a cult classic! And this sunscreen is like giving your face a hydrating hug. The INKEY List Polyglutamic Acid Dewy Sunscreen brings SPF30 and a dewy finish because who said you can't shine on the slopes? My only wish with this one is that it was a higher, SPF 50. But for the excellent hydration, I’ll allow it! I just tend to use it on shorter ski days and make sure I’m reapplying throughout the day.
9. NIVEA SUN UV Face SPF50 Q10 Anti-Age & Anti-Pigment No White Marks (50ml)
Ok, so it wouldn’t be a sun cream list without a good old Nivea product on here! The Nivea Sun UV Face SPF50 Q10 and an absolute must in your ski luggage. The 50ml tube is not your average sunblock; it's here to level up your winter skincare with some extra perks, like fighting the signs of skin ageing – yes please. I love that it's small enough to stick in your ski jacket pocket – and also at 50 ml, you can keep it on hand when you’re travelling in your hand luggage.
That’s La Plagne & the best winter sun creams for your face
So, there you have it – the lowdown on the top facial winter sun creams. Don't let the snow fool you; those UV rays are sneaky! So don’t forget: protect those faces and lips, and don't forget the daily moisturisation.
Now, I want to hear from you! Share your winter sun care tips, or throw any questions my way. Let's make this ski season the best one yet. Stay sun-safe, slope-ready, and looking fabulous!
See you on the slopes!
- Read this article for my top tips on winter skincare protection.
- Check out this popular blog post for the best winter lip balms for ski holiday survival!
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