Sun Protection in the Snow for Grand Rapids, Michigan

Winter in Grand Rapids brings plenty of opportunities to enjoy the snow—whether you’re sledding at Cannonsburg, snowboarding up north, ice fishing on Reeds Lake, or heading to ski areas across Michigan. Even though the temperatures are cold, the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays can still damage your skin and eyes.

Understanding how Michigan’s winter conditions affect UV exposure can help you and your family stay safe outdoors.

Why Sun Protection Matters in Michigan Winters

Most people in Grand Rapids think about sunscreen in July at Lake Michigan, not in January on a ski hill. But:

  • UV radiation is still present in winter, even on cloudy days.
  • Snow is highly reflective and can bounce UV rays back onto your face and eyes.
  • Higher elevations at Michigan ski areas (and trips to the Rockies) mean thinner atmosphere and stronger UV exposure.

Fresh snow can reflect up to 90% of UV radiation, making it even more reflective than water. This reflected UV can cause:

  • Sunburn
  • Premature skin aging
  • Long-term skin damage that increases the risk of skin cancer
  • Eye damage, including “snow blindness”

Even when it’s below freezing in Grand Rapids, your skin can burn if it’s unprotected.

Sun-Safe Clothing for Snow Sports and Outdoor Winter Activities

Whether you’re shoveling your driveway in Eastown, snowshoeing at Provin Trails, or skiing up north, cover up as much skin as possible.

  • Balaclava or beanie that covers your ears

    • Keeps your head and ears warm
    • Reduces UV exposure to your scalp and upper face

  • Scarf or neck gaiter

    • Protects your neck and lower face from UV and wind
    • Helpful on bright days when sunlight reflects off the snow

  • Jacket with a high collar

    • Shields your neck and lower face
    • Adds another layer of UV protection

  • Gloves and long sleeves

    • Keep hands and arms covered, especially during long periods outdoors

  • UV-protective goggles or sunglasses

    • Essential for skiing, snowboarding, and snowmobiling

Even in Grand Rapids’ overcast winters, UV rays penetrate clouds and reflect off snow, so covering up remains important.

How to Use Sunscreen in the Snow

Sunscreen is just as important at Cannonsburg in January as it is at Grand Haven in July.

Choosing and Applying Sunscreen

Use SPF 50+ broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen that protects against both UVA and UVB rays.

Before you go outside:

  • Apply sunscreen 20 minutes before heading outdoors.
  • Cover all exposed skin, including:
    • Face, especially nose and cheeks
    • Ears
    • Neck
    • Back of the neck and under the chin (light reflects upward)
    • Hands (if not fully covered by gloves)
  • Apply a thick, even layer—most people use too little.

While you’re outside:

  • Reapply every 2 hours, even if the label says “4 hours water-resistant.”
  • Reapply after:
    • Heavy sweating
    • Wiping your face with gloves or a tissue
    • Eating or drinking (for lips and around the mouth)
  • Keep a travel-size sunscreen in your jacket pocket or ski bag.

Don’t Rely on Sunscreen Alone

Use sunscreen together with:

  • A hat, beanie, or helmet with coverage
  • UV-blocking sunglasses or goggles
  • Long, protective clothing
  • Shade or indoor breaks when possible

Sunscreen alone does not provide complete protection.

Protecting Your Lips in Cold, Sunny Weather

Cold, dry Grand Rapids air plus reflected UV can crack and burn your lips.

  • Use SPF 50+, broad-spectrum, water-resistant lip balm or zinc cream.
  • Reapply:
    • Every 2 hours
    • After eating, drinking, or wiping your mouth
  • Keep lip balm in your pocket so you can reapply on the slopes, trails, or while shoveling.

Eye Protection: Preventing Snow Blindness and Long-Term Damage

Snow blindness (photokeratitis) is a type of sunburn on the surface of the eye (cornea). It is a real risk during winter sports and can occur:

  • On bright, sunny days with fresh snow
  • On cloudy days, because UV still penetrates clouds
  • During long days skiing, snowboarding, or snowmobiling

Symptoms of Snow Blindness

  • Painful, gritty, or burning eyes
  • Redness and tearing
  • Sensitivity to light
  • Blurred vision
    These symptoms are usually temporary but can be very painful.

How to Protect Your Eyes in the Snow

  • Always wear wrap-around sunglasses or snow goggles

    • Choose a snug fit so UV cannot enter from the top or sides.
    • For skiing and snowboarding, goggles usually offer better coverage.

  • Choose proper UV-rated eyewear

    • Look for products that meet recognized UV protection standards and clearly state:
      • 100% UV protection or
      • UV400 protection
    • In many cases, this means the lenses will block at least 95% of UV radiation.
    • Goggles and sunglasses can be fitted with prescription lenses—ask your Grand Rapids optometrist.

Polarized vs. UV Protection

  • Polarized lenses reduce glare from snow and ice, making it easier to see.
  • However, polarization does not equal UV protection.
  • Always check for UV protection labeling, not just “polarized.”

If you experience eye pain or vision changes after being in the snow, contact a local eye care provider or an optometrist in Grand Rapids.

Long-Term Eye Health and UV Exposure

UV exposure over time can contribute to:

  • Cataracts (clouding of the eye’s lens)
  • Pterygium (a membrane or growth across the eye surface)
  • Other eye conditions that affect vision

Consistent eye protection during Michigan winters and summers can lower your risk of these conditions.

For concerns about your eyes, schedule an exam with an optometrist or ophthalmologist in the Grand Rapids area—many are affiliated with Spectrum Health, Trinity Health Grand Rapids, Metro Health, and other local practices.

Sun Protection for Children in the Snow

Children in Grand Rapids need just as much sun protection as adults—sometimes more. Their skin is more sensitive, and early sun damage can increase the risk of skin cancer later in life.

Building Sun-Safe Habits

  • Lead by example

    • Wear your own sunscreen, sunglasses/goggles, and protective clothing.
    • Kids are more likely to cooperate when they see you doing the same.

  • Apply sunscreen 20 minutes before going outside

    • Use SPF 50+, broad-spectrum, water-resistant formulas.
    • Many brands offer sensitive skin options for children (and adults with sensitive skin).

  • Reapply every 2 hours

    • Especially during sledding, skiing, or long outdoor play.

Protective Clothing for Kids

  • Headwear that covers ears and head
    • Beanies, balaclavas, or helmets with liners.
  • Scarves and high-collared jackets
    • Protect the neck and lower face.
  • Sunglasses or goggles designed for children
    • Choose plastic lenses (safer than glass).
    • Ensure they provide 100% UV protection.
    • Look for secure, comfortable straps or bands for toddlers.

If a child refuses goggles or sunglasses, a brimmed hat (when practical) can offer some shade to the eyes, but it does not replace proper eyewear in bright, snowy conditions.

Windburn vs. Sunburn: What’s Really Happening?

Many people in West Michigan think they’ve gotten “windburn” on a cold, blustery day. While wind can:

  • Dry and irritate the skin
  • Make your face feel tight and rough

The redness, stinging, and peeling most people associate with “windburn” are usually caused by UV radiation, not the wind itself. In other words, it’s typically sunburn, even when it feels like a wind effect.

Protecting your skin with:

  • Sunscreen
  • Moisturizer
  • Protective clothing
    can help reduce both dryness and sun damage.

When to Seek Medical Advice in Grand Rapids

Contact a healthcare provider if you:

  • Have a severe or blistering sunburn
  • Develop eye pain, vision changes, or symptoms of snow blindness
  • Notice new or changing moles or skin spots
  • Have ongoing dryness, cracking, or irritation that doesn’t improve

Local options include:

  • Your primary care provider or family doctor (Spectrum Health, Trinity Health Grand Rapids, Metro Health, Mercy Health, and independent clinics)
  • A pharmacist for advice on over-the-counter sun care and soothing products
  • An optometrist or ophthalmologist for eye concerns
  • The Kent County Health Department or Grand Rapids Public Health for community health resources and education

Key Points for Sun Protection in Grand Rapids Winters

  • Winter activities such as skiing, snowboarding, sledding, and ice fishing in and around Grand Rapids pose a real risk of UV damage.
  • Snow can reflect up to 90% of UV radiation, increasing the risk of sunburn and eye damage—even on cold or cloudy days.
  • Always use a combination of protection: sunscreen, protective clothing, lip balm, sunglasses or goggles, and shade/indoor breaks when possible.
  • Children need the same level of protection as adults—start sun-safe habits early and model the behavior yourself.
  • Eye protection is essential to prevent snow blindness and long-term eye conditions such as cataracts and pterygium.

By staying SunSmart all year—through Lake Michigan summers and snowy Grand Rapids winters—you can enjoy the outdoors while protecting your skin and eyes.