UV rays 'a threat on skiing gap years'

Brits heading overseas during the ski season need to ensure they take all necessary precautions to protect their health, it has been claimed.

Thousands of people from all walks of life take time out from education or employment to work at a resort every year - with France, Switzerland and Canada among the popular destinations.

And many others head away to participate in ski and snowboard instructor courses, or engage in a spot of ski touring.

As such, Kimberley Carter of the British Association of Dermatologists has reminded winter travellers of the importance of protecting their skin during their working adventure.

"If you’re lucky enough to be trading the British rain for the sunny slopes of a ski resort, bear in mind that skiers risk soaking up as many dangerous ultraviolet (UV) rays as sun worshippers hitting the beach," she stated.

"Many people forget that skiing and snowboarding also carry a high risk of sunburn – just think of the panda-eyes tan marks that betray every novice skier."

Ms Carter explained that UV radiation is more severe in alpine regions than at sea level, with a mountain at 10,000 feet receiving 50 per cent more UV exposure than an area at sea level.

She added that water is very efficient at reflecting, rather than absorbing, UV radiation, and as a consequence the rays bounce off snow and ice in all directions.

The dangerous rays also have the ability to penetrate clouds and fog, Ms Carter said.

"Depending on the age of the snow, around 50 to 90 per cent of UV radiation is reflected, which puts areas such as the chin and nose tip at increased risk of dangerous sunburn," she added.

"So don't forget to pack a sunscreen with a sun protection factor of at least 30 and reapply it regularly to all exposed areas of skin if you are hitting the slopes," Ms Carter said.

UV radiation is at its highest between 10am and 3pm - so any gap year traveller hitting the slopes during the middle of the day should take all necessary precautions.

A number of Year Out Group members run winter-themed programmes, including Yamnuska Mountain Adventures, Nonstop Adventure, Peak Leaders, Flying Fish, International Academy and Alltracks Academy.

Check out all the different gap year programs on offer.