How to protect yourself from the sun in the mountains

The most important things in brief

• In the warm seasons, masses of people are not only drawn to the mountains in Switzerland.
• Many tend to underestimate the dangers of the mountains.
• This also includes the mountain sun, where the radiation effect is much greater than in the lowlands.
• As early as the end of March, exposure to UV radiation is immense.

The mountains are a popular travel destination at any time of the year. Weekend and day trippers are also drawn into the mountains, whether for skiing or ski tours in winter, for long hikes in the warmer seasons or for climbing the steep walls when they are free of snow and ice. You should know that the sun is an enormous health hazard, especially in spring and summer.

The effect of the UV rays is much greater up there

It is common knowledge that UVA and UVB radiation are important for many vital functions. Last but not least, vitamin D is obtained from the sun's rays. However, 15 minutes a day is enough to boost the production of the vitamin, and it doesn't even have to be the blazing sun for that. Staying in the shade is just as good.

But why do we differentiate between UVA and UVB radiation? Well, the long-wave UVA radiation can be responsible for tumors on the skin, they also sometimes trigger sun allergies and accelerate the aging of the skin. UVB rays, on the other hand, have shorter wavelengths and cause the skin to change color – slowly turning a beautiful shade of brown if the dosage is very careful. However, if you overdo it, you risk sunburn and long-term skin cancer from UVB radiation. At high altitudes, the strength of both radiations increases significantly.

Up to 15 percent more radiation per 1,000 meters in height

The rule of thumb states that the intensity of UV rays increases by up to 15 percent for every thousand meters of altitude. This happens because the air gets thinner and thinner higher up and can therefore filter less and less radiation. If you then factor in the high position of the sun, since you are usually out and about in the mountains in spring or summer, there is an additional radiation exposure. Also, don't be fooled by cloud cover, as only very thick clouds are able to reduce UV radiation. In the case of thin veil clouds or fog, hardly any radiation is filtered out.

The risk of sunburn and the associated long-term consequences such as skin aging or skin cancer increases imperceptibly from spring and with every meter of altitude, but just as unstoppable. To put it bluntly: You shouldn't venture into the mountains without protection from the sun, of course, even in winter, but certainly not in the warmer months of the year. But what is the best way to protect yourself?

Sun protection in the mountains: you can't do it without these tips

Be sure to apply sunscreen, the higher the sun protection factor, the better. Sweat-resistant SPF 50 sunscreen is best, and ideally you'll use that even if you're wearing long clothes. Apply the protection about 30 minutes before sun exposure. Protect your face, forehead and neck from the sun, preferably with thicker fabrics. A sun hat for the head is also highly recommended. Don't forget the lips either. And apply cream in good time.

Otherwise, sunglasses are unavoidable - and trying to avoid the blazing sun. However, one should not underestimate the indirect solar radiation. Also, take plenty of drinks with you. In addition to water, fruit spritzer is ideal for returning the minerals that have been sweated out.