Why skin specialists insist on using sunscreen during winter?

The importance of wearing sunscreen during the winter months cannot be overstated. Even though the weather is cooler and the sun seems less intense, UV radiation is still a threat to the health and appearance of your skin. Whether you’re spending time outdoors in the snow or just going about your daily activities, using sunscreen year-round is crucial in preventing skin damage, premature ageing, and reducing the risk of skin cancer. Skin specialists insist on the importance of wearing sunscreen all year long, even during the colder winter months. And here’s why:

UV Rays are Still Present in Winter
UV (Ultraviolet) rays are not exclusive to sunny summer days. In fact, they are present every day, regardless of the season, and can cause damage even when the weather is overcast or chilly. 

Reflection of UV Rays off Snow and Ice
A surprising factor contributing to winter UV exposure is the reflection of sunlight off snow and ice. Snow can reflect up to 80% of UV rays, which means your skin can be exposed to UV radiation from multiple directions—directly from the sun and reflected from the snow or ice beneath you. This reflection increases the potential for skin damage, especially at higher altitudes where the intensity of UV radiation is stronger.

Higher Altitudes Increase UV Exposure
Winter activities such as skiing, snowboarding, or hiking often take us to higher elevations where UV rays are more intense. The higher you are, the thinner the atmosphere, which means there is less protection from the sun’s harmful rays. This is particularly important for those who spend time in mountainous regions or at ski resorts, as they may experience increased sun exposure without realizing the risk.

Skin Can Still Get Damaged Even When It’s Cold
During winter, the cold air, wind, and indoor heating can all dry out the skin, making it more vulnerable to damage. This is why it’s crucial to moisturize your skin regularly. However, sunscreen is just as important for protecting the skin from UV damage. Without it, prolonged exposure to UV rays—whether directly or indirectly—can result in skin damage, hyperpigmentation, and an increased risk of skin cancer over time.

Skin Cancer Risk Doesn’t Take a Break
Skin cancer does not take a break in the winter months, and neither should your sun protection. Melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer, is primarily caused by UV radiation. Even though people may spend less time outdoors during the winter, the cumulative effects of UV exposure still contribute to the long-term risk of developing skin cancer.

Prevention of Premature Ageing
UVA rays are primarily responsible for the premature ageing of the skin, causing wrinkles, fine lines, and sagging. Since these rays penetrate deeper into the skin, they cause long-term damage that may not be immediately noticeable but will appear later in life. Wearing sunscreen daily during winter can help reduce the risk of developing these signs of ageing and keep your skin looking youthful.

Sunscreen Protects Against Infrared Radiation
In addition to UVA and UVB rays, infrared radiation (IR) from the sun also contributes to skin ageing and damage. While sunscreen is typically designed to protect against UVA and UVB, some formulations also protect against infrared radiation. With more people engaging in outdoor activities during winter, choosing a sunscreen that offers broad-spectrum protection can help guard against all types of radiation that affect the skin.

Winter Sunlight Can Be Deceptive
During the winter months, the sun’s rays may seem less intense because the angle of sunlight is lower and the days are shorter. However, this doesn’t mean that the UV radiation is any less harmful. It’s easy to underestimate the strength of the sun, leading people to forgo sunscreen when they really should still be applying it.