It might seem logical to ditch your sunscreen in the winter months, since winter skies are typically overcast compared with the rest of the year. However, there are important reasons to make this a year-round habit!
Reasons to wear sunscreen year-round are abundant. Studies show that the reflection of the sun’s rays on snow packs a powerful punch. Furthermore, up to 80% of the sun’s rays can reach your skin on a cloudy day. This puts to rest the notion that the sun can’t damage your skin on rainy days or during colder months.
Facts About the Sun’s Rays
There are two types of rays: UVA and UVB. UVA rays cause aging by destroying your skin’s collagen and elastin while UVB rays cause burning. Your tender skin is exposed to both UVA and UVB rays year-round. While it’s easy to know that your skin has been burned by the sun, the effects of UVA rays are more insidious: you won’t see the damage for years!
What Kind of Sunscreen Should You Wear in the Winter?
You might suspect that there are “special” sunscreen products designed for winter use but, in fact, you don’t need a “winter” sunscreen. You can continue to use a broad-spectrum product that protects against both kinds of rays. It should have a minimum of 40 SPF. Higher SPF products are more expensive but provide very little additional protection. Be sure you use enough: a dollop about the size of a quarter for each area of exposed skin is about right. Be sure to extend the sunscreen to your neck, as well as the back of your hands.
Wearing sunscreen daily will protect your skin from premature aging caused by UVA rays! Come in and see our options so you can maintain protection during the winter months!
As a fulltime aesthetician, it’s my honor and privilege to offer you the best products and services to give you glowing, soft, youthful skin! Schedule a time to come and visit with me to discuss your skincare needs—my consultations are free! Email me with questions here: 