Sunscreen in winter: Three reasons why it’s a must

It’s easy to leave out the SPF factor from your winter skin care routine when it’s cold outside and you’re layering up on warm clothes, but missing this step would be a major mistake. While the sun’s UV rays might not be as strong in winter compared to summer, they can still cause aging and skin damage if your skin is unprotected – even when you are indoors. Everysun shares three reasons why you need to keep up the sunscreen during the colder months:

1. Those UV rays are going to find you: Going skiing for the winter? Layer up on sunscreen, as high altitude and a reflective surface such as snow is the perfect combination for sunburn. Why? Snow reflects up to 80% of the sun’s UV light, which means that the sun’s rays will hit your face twice. Staying indoors on a cloudy day? Don’t forget your sunscreen, as UVA rays can still reach your skin on a cloudy and foggy day, as well as penetrate glass. UVA rays can cause wrinkles, fine lines, age and liver spots and may even lead to terminal forms of skin cancer, if your skin is exposed for a long time.
2. The reapply rule applies to winter too: We all know that applying one little layer of sunscreen in the morning is not enough to get you through the day in summer – well, the same applies in winter. The Skin Cancer Foundation warns that wind, dry air and all round harsher weather conditions means sunscreen erodes faster in winter than in summer. So opt for a high SPF sunscreen that is also moisturising and reapply on your face, neck and hands to keep your skin protected and prevent premature aging and dehydration.
3. Don’t forget the kids: Children have thinner and more delicate skin than adults and are therefore at an even higher risk of sunburn and skin damage. Apply and reapply sunscreen to your children’s skin throughout the year to make sure they are always protected while they are learning, growing and playing.