Is sunscreen necessary during the winter months?
While many people often associate sunburns with summer heat, there is still a significant risk of sun damage during the colder, cloudier winter months. This can lead to the development of skin cancer, as well as, premature ageing and other seasonal concerns such as dry and itchy skin.
Why do you still need sunscreen in winter?
Do I really need to worry about sun protection in winter? Yes!
While the sun's rays may not feel as warm or strong on your skin during the winter, its ultraviolet (UV) rays continue to break down your skin cells at a faster rate regardless of the season, resulting in a condition called photoaging.
This premature aging of your skin is responsible for the majority of the visible signs of aging, and it can make you look older than your age by accelerating fine lines, wrinkles, sunspots, and discoloration.
Even more concerning, by not wearing sunscreen in the winter, you increase your risk of skin cancer. The sun’s UV rays are harmful during this time of year because the ozone layer is at its thinnest.
Plus, snow and ice can reflect up to 90% in these rays and actually increase their intensity, making it especially important to keep your skin protected.
Here in the Northern Hemisphere, we’re actually closer to the sun during the winter. So even though temperatures may be cooler because of the tilt of the earth, we’re physically closer to the sun’s harmful UV rays.
Which sunscreen is best for me during the winter?
Everyone should use a broad-spectrum sunscreen that protects against both UVA and UVB rays and has at least SPF 30 protection, which blocks about 97% harmful UV rays. Ultimately, though, the best winter sunscreen for you is the one that best meets your unique needs.
For example, if you are active in winter sports or like to spend a lot of time outside during the colder season, you need a sunscreen that is water- and sweat-resistant. And if you are at higher altitudes, such as a ski resort, look for SPF 50 or higher for the best protection against reflected rays.
Regardless of your activity level and whether it is sunny or cloudy, it is a good idea to apply sunscreen to your exposed skin every day. Even small amounts of sun exposure add up and can cause premature aging and increase your risk of skin cancer.
You can keep your skin as safe as possible this winter by:
Applying sunscreen to all exposed skin, even your lips (this is an area that can become neglected)
Putting on sunscreen at least 20 minutes before heading outside (same as if you were on a beach)
Protecting the skin that is exposed from reflected UV rays, like the underside of your chin and the bottom of your nose
Reapplying sunscreen at least every two hours and more frequently if your sweating
At Plumpitupp we have a number of different sunscreens that will fit your needs from tinted to untinted.
Come and visit us and book a consultation for a facial or skin analysis and get the proper products for your skin care needs, click here to book!
P.S. SUNSCREEN IS NON NEGOTIABLE AND NEEDS TO BE USED ALL YEAR LONG!