You need to wear sunscreen in the winter. The misconception that cold weather shields against the sun’s radiation is a common oversight. Ultraviolet (UV) rays are present every day of the year, regardless of the temperature or cloud cover, making year-round protection necessary for skin health.
The Year-Round Presence of Harmful UV Rays
Solar radiation includes two types of ultraviolet light that affect the skin: UVA and UVB rays. UVB rays are shorter wavelength, higher-energy rays responsible for sunburn and are most intense during summer. Because the sun is lower in the winter sky, its light travels through more atmosphere, filtering out a significant portion of these rays. UVA rays, however, present a constant threat because their intensity remains stable year-round.
UVA rays penetrate clouds and ordinary window glass, reaching deep into the skin’s layers. While UVB rays cause burning, UVA rays are linked to long-term issues like photoaging, wrinkles, and an increased risk of skin cancer. Therefore, UVA exposure continues to accumulate and damage the skin even on the shortest, cloudiest winter days.
Environmental Factors That Amplify Winter Exposure
Certain winter conditions amplify the amount of UV radiation the skin absorbs. The most significant factor is the high reflectivity of snow, which acts like a giant mirror. Fresh snow reflects between 80% and 90% of UV radiation, bouncing the rays back toward the skin. This effectively doubles the dose of UV light, as exposure comes directly from the sun and indirectly from the ground.
Altitude also plays a substantial role in increasing exposure, making winter activities like skiing or snowboarding high-risk. For every 1,000 meters of elevation gained, UV radiation intensity increases by about 10% to 12%. The atmosphere is thinner at higher altitudes, which reduces the natural filtering of UV rays.
The combination of high altitude and snow reflection often makes UV exposure more intense than it is at sea level during the summer. Cold air and wind can compromise the skin’s natural moisture barrier, making the skin more susceptible to the harmful effects of UV radiation.
Essential Guidelines for Cold Weather Sunscreen Application
Selecting the correct product is foundational for winter sun protection. Choose a sunscreen labeled as “broad-spectrum,” confirming it filters both UVA and UVB rays. An SPF of 30 or higher is the suitable minimum for daily winter wear.
Individuals spending extended time outdoors or at high altitudes should use an SPF of 50 or greater for enhanced protection. The product must be applied to all exposed areas, including commonly missed spots like the lips, ears, neck, and the area under the chin, which receives reflected radiation from snow. Sunscreen should be reapplied every two hours, especially during outdoor activity.
Reapplication is necessary because sweating or friction from winter gear can cause the product to wear off quickly. For those with dry winter skin, selecting a formula with moisturizing ingredients provides the dual benefit of hydration and UV defense.