The 9 Best Skincare Products to Pack for Your Next Ski Trip, According to Experts

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While I've personally only seen a dusting of snow so far, many of us have been bracing ourselves for winter for weeks. If your favorite cold weather activity includes an annual visit to the slopes, packing a few of the best skincare products for skiing specifically can be a saving grace for your face.

"When skiing the skin is prone to the elements, such as wind, cold, low humidity, and sun," Brendan Camp, double board-certified dermatologist at MDCS Dermatology in New York City, tells Bazaar. "Windburn can leave the skin feeling raw and red, while cold temperatures and low humidity can increase the risk of developing dry skin. Plus, direct sun exposure in addition to the reflection of UV rays from snow can also cause sunburn."

Los Angeles and Hawaii-based board-certified dermatologist Shirley Chi agrees, adding that, "even on cloudy days when you may think you're like not being exposed to a lot of sun, you can still end up with a sunburn without proper application of sunscreen." The American Academy of Dermatology generally recommends a minimum SPF of 30, but professional note that those with fair complexions or are used to burning more easily should opt for a higher number, like 40 or 50.

For more of the top dermatologist-tested and suggested beauty essentials for ski season, read on for nine of the best skincare products to keep on hand—whether you're waiting in line for the lift or just hanging out in a cabin—during frigid winter months.

Glow Stick SPF 50

When it comes to your SPF, Camp recommends opting for a stick version. They feature waxy formulas that can help minimize the effects of windburn while protecting your skin from the sun. "Sunscreen is an important item to carry in your pocket when on the slopes," he says. "Consider using an SPF 30 minimum when outdoors for extended periods."

C E Ferulic

Chi says after cleansing her skin, she often applies the SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic Serum prior to her go-to moisturizer. It contains a potent 15 percent L-ascorbic acid (the purest of the ingredient), plus vitamin E and ferulic acid, to brighten skin and build its collagen.

UV Lip Balm BroadSpectrum SPF 36

Lip balms with SPF come highly recommended by professionals when engaging in outdoor activities. "Not only will the balm keep your lips moisturized and protect them from windburn, the SPF may help limit the risk of sunburn," Camp says.

Pure Vitamin C Face Serum with Salicylic Acid

For those with sensitive skin that gets easily irritated, Chi recommends this vitamin C serum from La Roche-Posay. In addition to 10 percent of the ingredient, this serum also features glycerin for added moisture, plus salicylic acid to refine skin's tone and texture.

Lipikar Balm AP+M Triple Repair Body Moisturizing Cream

To repair dryness after a long day outdoors and ahead of Après ski, experts suggest using a heavy-duty moisturizer, like La Roche-Posay's Lipikar Balm. "This is a great product for face and body," Chi notes. "You don't have to apply a thick layer of it, and the balm absorbs very well into the skin."

Sunforgettable Total Protection Brush-On Shield SPF 50

To give your complexion a subtle tint while seamlessly re-applying your sunscreen, Chi recommends using Colorscience's Sunforgettable Total Protection Brush-On Shield SPF 50. Not only does it contain broad-spectrum sunscreen, but it's also housed in a self-dispensing tube to minimize mess (which means you can keep your gloves on as you use it).

Hydrating Facial Cleanser

"A gentle cleanser is important to remove the sweat and oil that accumulates on the skin without making it too dry," Camp adds. This one from CeraVe is perfect for skiing season, since it uses a combination of ceramides and hyaluronic acid to lock in skin's moisture as it washes away dirt and oil.

Healing Ointment (Pack of 3)

For a moisturizing lip option sans sunscreen, Chi suggests keeping a travel-size tube of Aquaphor's beloved Healing Ointment handy, which is ideal to treat dry, cracked skin.

Meet the Experts

• Shirley Chi, M.D., is a board-certified dermatologist currently practicing in both Los Angeles and Hawaii. She is also a medical expert for ABC7 news.

• Brendan Camp, M.D., F.A.A.D, is currently the clinical assistant professor of dermatology at Weill Cornell Medical College, and a double board-certified dermatologist at MDCS Dermatology in New York City.

What's the best way to protect your skin while skiing?

Although even I have to admit that remembering to re-apply sunscreen can sometimes feel like a hassle, it's one of the most important steps in winter-proofing your skin for outdoor activities this season.

As far as a timeline of when to do so on the slopes? "If your face isn't getting sweaty, you should reapply your sunscreen every two hours while skiing," Chi advises. "If you're more of a sweaty skiier, then I'd say reapply every hour and a half." Outside of keeping the best skincare products for skiing in your toiletry bag, drinking lots of water is an excellent way to keep your body and skin hydrated from the inside out. Camp also suggests wearing a face mask or balaclava under your ski helmet to provide maximum protection from the sun and wind.

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For more than 150 years, Harper’s Bazaar has been the preeminent fashion and beauty resource for women at every age. We cover what’s new and what’s next in beauty by working with the world’s leading authorities in dermatology, plastic surgery, cosmetics, skincare, haircare, and fragrance. Every story we publish has been thoroughly researched and vetted by our team of beauty editors and industry experts.

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