For many, the winter months offer the prospect of ski breaks with clear blue skies and invigorating mountain air. But are we taking enough care of our eyes on the slopes? Boffins at Liverpool Uni think not…

Their research has revealed that on average people missed 9.5% of their faces when applying sunscreen, with the most commonly missed areas being the eyelids and the area between the bridge of the nose and the eye. This is of particular concern, as between 5-10% of all skin cancers occur on the eyelids. And when we hit the slopes, the risks increase, as there is less atmospheric protection from UV radiation. In addition, snow glare reflects even more of the harmful rays back onto our faces.

So what should we do to minimise the risk? Dr Kevin Hamill writes: ”A thoroughly-applied sunblock of at least SPF 30 is a good start but isn't enough. You need to make sure that you take your cream to the slopes and reapply at regular intervals. You also need to wear goggles or sunglasses. Wrap around frames that protect the whole eye area and have 100% UV protection are ideal."

Sources:

1. Science Daily:
   'Protect your eyes while on the slopes’, scientists warn.

2. University of Liverpool News:
   Misapplication of sunscreen leaves people vulnerable to skin cancer.