Essential sun safety information

New York, NY (February 2008) - The combination of higher altitude and ultraviolet (UV) rays reflected by the snow puts skiers and snowboarders at an increased risk of sun damage and ultimately, skin cancer. More than 90 percent of all skin cancers are caused by sun exposure.

Both snow and strong wind can wear away sunscreen and reduce its effectiveness, so you have to take extra precautions. To protect your skin from the bitter cold, heavy winds and winter sun, follow these important sun protection tips:

• Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher whenever you spend time outdoors. Apply 30 minutes before hitting the slopes. Be aware that the sun's reflection off the snow is strong even on cloudy days.

• Apply sunscreen liberally and evenly to all exposed skin - most skiers and snowboarders do not use enough sunscreen and therefore do not get the maximum protection.

• Use a more moisturizing sunscreen. Winter conditions can be particularly harsh on the skin.

• Be sure to cover oftenmissed spots: lips, ears, around eyes, neck, underside of chin, scalp and hands.

• Always wear a lip balm with an SPF 15 or higher - lips are even more sensitive than most parts of the skin.

• Cover up with clothing, including a broad-brimmed hatand UV-blocking sunglasses.

• Reapply at least every two hours, and more often after sweating or exposure to wind and snow.

• Carry a travel-sized sunscreen and lip balm with you on the slopes. Reapply on the chairlift, especially after a long, snow-blown run.

Be mindful of time spent in the sun, regardless of the season.

• Keep track of the time you spend in full sunlight. If possible, ski early in the morning and later on in the day, before 10AM and after 4PM. This helps avoid long lines and decreases the amount of time spent outdoors in the most intense hours of sunlight.

• If you are on the slopes for most of the day, take a few breaks indoors to reapply sunscreen.

• Drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration from the sun.

Enjoy the winter season, but be sure to take care of your skin to avoid the damage the cold season can cause. To find out more about how to protect yourself from the sun this winter and all yearround, visit www.skincancer.org, or call 1- 800-SKIN-490.