You need to wear sunscreen in the winter. The belief that the sun’s rays are only dangerous when the weather is warm is a misconception. Ultraviolet (UV) radiation is an invisible form of energy, and its intensity is independent of the surrounding air temperature. The cold feeling of winter air is related to ambient temperature, but skin damage is determined by atmospheric factors. Skin protection is necessary throughout the entire year.
The Persistence of UV Rays in Cold Weather
The sun emits two primary types of UV radiation: UVA and UVB. In winter, the sun’s lower angle means the atmosphere filters out a greater portion of UVB rays, which are the main cause of sunburn. While UVB intensity decreases, the threat from UVA radiation remains relatively consistent throughout the year. UVA rays penetrate the skin more deeply than UVB, reaching the dermal layer. They accelerate premature aging, contribute to wrinkles, and increase the risk of skin cancer.
Many people mistakenly believe that cloudy skies offer a protective shield against the sun’s energy. However, clouds that block visible light often only minimally reduce UV radiation. Studies show that up to 80% of UV rays can still penetrate cloud cover, posing a significant risk even on overcast days. In certain atmospheric conditions, such as with scattered clouds, the UV radiation can even be enhanced as the rays reflect and scatter.
The feeling of cold air can be misleading because it is not an indicator of the actual UV exposure level. A cool, breezy day may encourage people to spend time outdoors without sun protection, increasing the risk of damage. Since UV rays are not felt as heat, the lack of warmth does not equate to the absence of skin-damaging radiation. This disconnect between temperature and UV intensity requires daily protection.
Environmental Factors That Increase Winter Exposure
Specific environmental conditions in winter can amplify the amount of UV radiation reaching the skin. The most significant factor is the albedo effect, which is the reflection of sunlight off surfaces like snow and ice. Fresh snow is highly reflective, bouncing up to 80% to 90% of the UV radiation that hits its surface. This reflection means the skin is exposed to the sun’s rays not only from above but also from below, effectively doubling the overall exposure.
Exposure is significantly increased at higher elevations, common in many winter sports destinations. For every 1,000 feet of elevation gain, UV intensity increases by approximately 4% to 5%. This heightened exposure is due to the thinner atmosphere at altitude, which provides less of a filter against the sun’s radiation. The combination of high altitude and snow reflection creates an environment where UV exposure can rival that of a summer day at the beach.
A third, often overlooked, source of winter exposure occurs indoors and in vehicles. Standard window glass effectively blocks most UVB rays, preventing immediate sunburn. However, regular windows allow a substantial portion of UVA rays—often 50% to 75%—to pass through unimpeded. Sitting near a window at home or during a long commute still exposes the skin to the deep-penetrating radiation that causes aging and long-term damage.
Selecting and Applying Sun Protection for Winter
Choosing the right sunscreen addresses both UV protection and the season’s unique skin needs. It is recommended to use a broad-spectrum formulation to ensure defense against both UVA and UVB rays. Dermatologists advise a minimum Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of 30 for daily use. Increase to SPF 50 or higher for extended time outdoors at high altitudes or on snow. Many winter-specific sunscreens also contain moisturizing agents like hyaluronic acid, which help counteract the drying effects of cold air and indoor heating.
Proper application technique is necessary to ensure the advertised level of protection is achieved. Sunscreen should be applied generously to all exposed skin 15 to 20 minutes before heading outdoors, allowing time to absorb and form a protective barrier. Pay particular attention to frequently missed areas, including the ears, the back of the neck, and the underside of the chin, where reflected rays can cause damage. The lips are also vulnerable to sun damage and should be protected with an SPF 30 or higher lip balm.
Reapplication is important, especially during outdoor winter activities. Sunscreen should be reapplied approximately every two hours to maintain consistent protection. Activities that cause heavy sweating, such as skiing or hiking, or conditions involving wind and friction, can cause the product to wear away faster. Keeping a small, travel-sized product on hand ensures protection can be easily maintained throughout the day.