Summer may be over, but even though it’s gearing up to be a dark and cold season ahead, it’s important to make sure you’re taking steps towards preventing sun damage during winter. Though most of us layer on the sunscreen during the summer months when the sun is shining, many of us fail to take the same steps during the winter.
Even if it’s cloudy or cold, the sun is still shining. UV rays can still reach your skin during the winter, and if you aren’t taking precautions, you can be increasing your likelihood for skin aging and skin cancer. According to the state Department of Health’s Cancer Registry, skin cancer rate in Washington state is 23% percent higher than the national average. Many say this is due to the fact that we assume an overcast sky means we can forgo sun protection. Not so.
While UV rays are strongest during the summertime, high altitude and reflective sufferance like ice or snow can cause sunburn even in the dead of winter. Learn about the importance of preventing sun damage during the winter below!
How UV Rays Age Skin
Preventing sun damage during the winter is important to healthy skin. But how does skin get damaged in the first place? Let’s look at UV rays.
There are several kinds of UV light: UVA and UVB. UVA light is powerful light that is not absorbed by the ozone. When it reaches the skin, UVA light can cause redness, form fine lines, and contribute to the formation of age spots.
Think you’re safe from skin damage inside? Think again.
UVA light has the ability to penetrate windows, so even if you’re inside on a sunny day you may be susceptible to the affects of UV light.
Unlike UVA light, UVB light doesn’t always make it to the Earth’s surface. However, when it does, they can wreck havoc on the top layer of skin. UVB light and radiation cause damage to skin cells, weaken the immune system, and contribute to sunburns.
Preventing Sun Damage During Winter
Covering up is key to preventing sun damage during the winter. In the summer months when more skin is exposed we are usually great about lathering on sunscreen. During winter, since we’re often wearing more layers, we can usually forgo putting sunscreen on the body. But even during the winter time, places like the face and neck are usually left exposed to the elements.
Preventing sun damage during the winter starts with a good, high-SPF sunscreen. Remember to apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen daily to exposed skin, remembering spots like the ears and hairline that tend to get overlooked. This is especially important if you’re going to be in snow, which reflects up to 80% of UV rays.
Allure carries two great sunscreen options to help with preventing sun damage during winter.
EltaMD
Like we mentioned in our post about winter skincare tips, locking in moisture is key to looking (and feeling) our best, and can keep skin supple.
Facials are another great way to help replenish parched skin and fight signs of aging that have already begun to show.
For more information on preventing sun damage during winter and keeping that health glow, reach our winter skincare tips for radiant skin!