When you’re out in the cold months of winter, enjoying the cool weather and not worrying about tanning, you don’t think twice about sunscreen. Those summer months of swimsuits and tanning are far from your mind, but sunscreen application shouldn’t be. The sun’s harmful rays, which can damage and age your skin, are still as prevalent through the winter as they are during the summer. The truth is, applying sunscreen in winter is just as important, if not more important, than applying it in the summer.
During the summer, your skin is used to exposure to the sun and tanning. But in the winter, your skin isn’t as exposed as heavily. That means what little exposure your skin does get will have a huge impact. Not to mention, all of the cold air and indoor heating during the winter can take a toll on your skin by making it dry and weak. Applying sunscreen in winter can minimize the damage done to your skin.
While your skin is more prone to damage in the winter, the sun’s rays are also more harmful. The earth is the closest that it gets to the sun during the winter. That closeness makes the UV rays from the sunlight that much stronger. Not to mention, snowy and icy areas reflect up to 80% percent of the UV rays, making it essential to apply sunscreen in winter.
Sun rays pass through nearly everything except sunblock, even clothes. So, if you are planning on spending a lengthy amount of time outside in the winter, make sure to apply a thorough coating of sunscreen. Make sure to re-apply your sunscreen as well. Even though you may be cold and don’t realize it, you’re still sweating off the sunscreen in winter. For extra precaution, use a lip balm that has SPF and wear sunglasses.
