We know how crucial it is to protect our skin in the summer months but cold weather often tricks us into thinking we don’t need sunscreen. “So, why should I wear sunscreen in winter?”
It’s all too easy to assume that cloudy skies and frigid temperatures mean we’re safe from the sun’s harmful rays. But this misconception leaves our skin vulnerable, as UV radiation doesn’t take a break in the winter months.
Many people don’t know that the winter season can expose us to even greater risks due to UV reflection from snow and a lack of sun protection habits.
Findings from Hamilton Health Sciences reveal that two-thirds of Canadians skip sunscreen during the winter, potentially exposing their skin to the long-term damage caused by ultraviolet rays. Below, we explain why wearing sunscreen year-round is essential and how to protect your skin from winter sunlight.
Why You Need Sunscreen in Winter
The cold and cloudy weather may not feel like a beach day, but should you wear spf in winter?
In short, the answer is yes, as UV radiation remains strong year-round. There are two types of UV rays to be concerned about: UVA and UVB. While UVB rays, which are primarily responsible for sunburn, decrease in intensity during winter, UVA rays remain strong year-round. These rays penetrate the skin on a deep level, causing signs of premature aging and increasing the risk of skin cancer.
Winter presents an added challenge: snow. Snow can reflect up to 80% of UV radiation, amplifying the effects of sun exposure. This is significantly more than the reflection from water or sand. So, whether you’re skiing, snowboarding, or simply walking outside on a snowy day, your skin is at risk of absorbing harmful UV rays.
Even on cloudy days, UV rays penetrate through the atmosphere, leaving you with a snow sunburn. Studies show that up to 80% of UV rays can pass through clouds, meaning that overcast weather isn’t an excuse to skip sunscreen.
The Elevation Revelation: High Altitude Means High Risk
Another key factor many forget during winter is altitude. If you’re engaging in winter sports at higher elevations, such as skiing or snowboarding, UV exposure increases. For every 1,000 meters you ascend, UV levels rise by about 10%, making SPF for winter a must. Combined with the reflective properties of snow, the sun’s rays can become incredibly intense, even in frigid conditions.
Many outdoor enthusiasts don’t realize that their skin is still absorbing significant amounts of UV radiation, even if it doesn’t feel like a typical summer sunburn day. This “elevation revelation” leads to cumulative sun damage, and winter sun contributes to wrinkles, fine lines, and skin cancer over time.
Sunburn in Winter: Yes, It Can Happen
Surprisingly to some, winter sunburn is a real concern. The cool air can mask the burning sensation, leading people to believe they’re safe from sunburn.
However, snow sunburn occurs when UV rays bounce off the snow and reflect onto the skin, often intensifying exposure compared to summertime conditions. This is especially true when engaging in winter sports or spending extended time outdoors.
If you’ve ever come home from a winter day on the slopes with red or peeling skin, you’ve experienced the effects of sunburn in winter. Preventing winter sunburn is critical for maintaining the health and appearance of your skin.
How Winter Conditions Affect Your Skin
Aside from UV radiation, winter weather presents additional challenges for your skin. Cold air, low humidity, and indoor heating all contribute to dry, irritated skin. When you add UV exposure into the mix, it’s a recipe for damage. The combination of dryness and UV exposure can lead to faster skin aging, fine lines, and a greater risk of developing skin cancers, such as basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma.
Winter also often gives a false sense of security, as the cold weather can numb our skin, making it harder to detect early signs of sun damage. Protecting your skin from these environmental stressors is essential for maintaining healthy skin throughout the year.
Dermatologist Recommendations for Winter Sunscreen
Choosing the right sunscreen for winter is crucial for protecting your skin. Here are Pacific Derm’s expert dermatologist recommendations for selecting and using sunscreen during the colder months:
- Broad-Spectrum Protection: A broad-spectrum sunscreen will shield your skin from both UVA and UVB rays. UVA rays are the primary concern during winter, as they penetrate deeper into the skin and cause long-term damage.
- SPF 30 or Higher: Don’t skimp on SPF. Even during winter, it’s recommended to use sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. This provides ample protection, especially when spending time outdoors or in snowy environments.
- Moisturizing Sunscreen: Since winter air can dry out your skin, look for sunscreens that contain moisturizing ingredients like hyaluronic acid or ceramides to keep your skin hydrated while protecting it from UV rays.
- Reapply Regularly: Just as in the summer, sunscreen needs to be reapplied every two hours, especially if you’re outdoors for an extended period or engaging in activities like skiing or snowboarding.
- Don’t Forget Your Lips and Eyes: The lips and eyes are often neglected during sun protection routines. Use a lip balm with SPF and wear UV-blocking sunglasses to protect the sensitive skin around your eyes from reflected UV rays.
Building a Winter Skincare Routine with Sunscreen
Incorporating sunscreen into your daily winter skincare routine doesn’t have to be complicated. Start with a moisturizing sunscreen as your base layer every morning, and then follow up with a hydrating serum or cream to lock in moisture. If you prefer a streamlined routine, consider using moisturizing sunscreen like Riversol, which is packed with vitamins C and E.
If you’re spending extended time outdoors, make sure to keep a travel-sized sunscreen with you for reapplication. Sunscreen should also be applied to exposed areas of skin, such as your neck, hands, and ears, which are often forgotten but can suffer significant UV damage.
Protect Your Skin Year-Round When Deciding ‘Should I Wear Sunscreen in Winter?’ by Visiting Pacific Derm
Winter doesn’t give you a free pass from UV damage, unfortunately. The combination of cold weather, high altitudes, and snow reflection can lead to skin damage that accumulates over time, contributing to premature aging and increasing the risk of skin cancer. With two-thirds of Canadians skipping sunscreen during the winter, don’t be part of this statistic.
For more personalized advice on protecting your skin during winter, consider scheduling a consultation with Pacific Derm. Our team of experts can help you choose the best winter sunscreens and build a winter skincare routine that keeps your skin healthy and protected all year long.