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Protect yourself from the sun in the mountains: tips for responsible sun exposure

The mountains are a dream destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering breathtaking scenery and a multitude of activities all year round. However, at high altitude, exposure to the sun's ultraviolet (UV) rays is more intense, which can pose risks to skin and eyes. Here are a few tips for enjoying the wonders of Serre Chevalier Vallée Briançon while protecting your health.

  • Why is the sun more intense in the mountains?

As altitude increases, the atmosphere thins, reducing the amount of UV rays absorbed by the air. As a result, for every 1,000 meters of altitude, UV intensity increases by around 10-12%. What's more, snow and ice reflect up to 80% of UV rays, increasing total exposure. This means that even on cloudy days, you can be exposed to high levels of UV.

  • The risks of prolonged uv exposure

Excessive UV exposure can lead to sunburn, premature aging of the skin, and an increased risk of skin cancers such as melanoma. The eyes can also be affected, leading to conditions such as photokeratitis (a sunburn on the cornea) or, in the long term, cataracts.

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Tips for effective sun protection

  1. Avoid peak hours: The sun's rays are most intense between 10am and 4pm. If possible, plan your outdoor activities outside these hours to minimize exposure.
  2. Wear protective clothing: Opt for long, light, dark clothing that covers the skin well. Many sportswear items are now available with built-in UV protection. Don't forget a wide-brimmed hat to protect your face and neck.
  3. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen: Choose a sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 30 or more. Make sure it offers both UVA and UVB protection. Apply generously to all exposed areas of the skin, including the face, neck, ears and back of hands. Reapply every two hours, or more often if you perspire a lot or after swimming.
  4. Use lip balms with UV protection: Lips are often neglected, but they can also suffer UV damage. Use a lip balm with SPF 15 or higher.
  5. Protect your eyes: Wear good-quality sunglasses that block 100% of UV rays. Wraparound glasses or glasses with side shields are ideal for reducing peripheral exposure.
  6. Be careful even on cloudy days: Up to 80% of UV rays can penetrate clouds, so it's crucial to protect yourself even on overcast days.
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Children and sun exposure

Children are particularly vulnerable to UV damage, as their skin is more sensitive. Make sure they wear protective clothing and hats, and apply sunscreen regularly. Encourage them to play in the shade during peak sun hours.

Enjoy the mountains responsibly

At Serre Chevalier Vallée Briançon, we encourage all our visitors to enjoy the beautiful scenery and outdoor activities while taking precautions to protect themselves from the sun. By following these simple tips, you can reduce the risks associated with sun exposure and enjoy your stay to the full.

Remember, the mountains are a place for adventure and relaxation, but they also require respect for the natural elements to make your experience as safe and enjoyable as possible.

By adopting these practices, you'll be able to take full advantage of everything the mountains have to offer, in complete safety. Enjoy your stay in Serre Chevalier Vallée Briançon!

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