Do you need sunscreen in the winter? Applying it to your exposed skin is probably the last thing on your mind when you’re bundling up in scarves and coats when temps drop. But just because it’s cold outside doesn’t mean the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays take a break. So, the answer to that question is yes. Even though we usually associate sunscreen with the summertime, your skin is at risk for cancer from UV radiation year-round, including the winter season.
Key Takeaways
- Even in the winter, UV rays are dangerous and can be harmful, especially if you’re near snow or ice in high altitudes.
- With up to 90% reflection capability, snow and ice can intensify the impact of UV rays.
- You should wear sunscreen in the winter and on cloudy days to reduce the risk of skin cancer and prevent premature aging.
Why Do You Need Sunscreen in the Winter?
Even though UV levels are lower in the winter, they’re still high enough to cause damage to your skin. While invisible to the human eye, they can penetrate through clouds and windows to break down your skin cells and cause a phenomenon known as “photoaging.”
This kind of premature aging can age your skin faster than time alone by causing fine lines, wrinkles, and discoloration. By consistently wearing sunscreen in the winter, you can create a protective barrier that prevents these effects.
Here are some other facts about the winter season that make wearing sunscreen during this time of year critical, even on days that it is overcast:
- The Northern Hemisphere is closer to the sun, causing UV rays to be more intense.
- The ozone layer, which is like a protective shield the earth uses to filter UV rays, is thinner in cold months.
- Reflective surfaces in snowy regions amplify UV radiation, with snow and ice reflecting up to 90% of the rays.
When you consider all of these factors, it’s easy to see why the answer to “Do you need sunscreen in the winter,” is yes. Your skin is still vulnerable to premature aging and skin cancer despite the fact that it doesn’t feel hot.
How Can You Protect Your Skin in the Winter with Sunscreen?
Protecting your skin in the winter is about more than simply remembering to apply sunscreen, although that is a great place to start. Dermatologists recommend generously applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 to all exposed skin. And don’t forget the areas you may overlook, like your ears and lips. For your lips, try using a lip balm that already has SPF in it.
If you’re participating in outdoor sports or activities during the winter, you should choose a water-resistant sunscreen to ensure you’re still protected if you sweat or come into contact with water.
You’ll want to apply your sunscreen 15–20 minutes before you go outside and reapply it every two hours (more if you’re sweating or active) for maximum protection and efficacy.
Protecting Your Skin with RMC
So, now you know—it’s essential to safeguard your skin year-round with sunscreen because UV rays have no days off. While protecting yourself with sunscreen is useful for preventing premature aging and reducing your risks of skin cancer, you should also be vigilant about any changes you notice in your skin, like new spots or moles or changes to existing ones.
If you’re worried about winter’s unique risks for your skin health or you’ve noticed any changes, our oncologists are here to help! Contact us for a comprehensive skin evaluation and personalized advice on how to protect your skin year-round.