Whether we like it or not, summer is nearly over. That means less time spent outdoors and less time applying sunscreen. However, many people forget about their skin from November through March. This makes them susceptible to painful UV rays, especially early in the morning and late at night.
It’s always possible to start protecting your skin from harsh sunlight. Even when it gets cold outside, you should always wear sunscreen. Here are four reasons why you should stay well-protected even in winter.
1. You Can’t Escape UV Rays
Even when it’s cold out, UV rays are still a threat to your skin. Your favorite pair of jeans might block out the wind, but they won’t block the sun. Sunlight bounces off roads, car windows, and pretty much anything else you can think of. The sun is generally brighter during winter than it is during summer.
These UV rays can cause skin cancer in addition to premature aging. Using sunscreen can significantly reduce your chances of developing both conditions.
2. Many Sunscreen Products Have Useful Skin Care Properties
UV rays damage your skin primarily through the generation of free radicals. UV rays can also cause DNA damage, which can lead to premature aging. Antioxidant-rich sunscreen products neutralize harmful UV rays and keep them from causing harm to your body’s cells.
When using regular sunscreen, you’ll also be helping prevent acne and other skin irritations. You can take care of your skin on top of preventing sunburn by using broad-spectrum sunscreens with an SPF 30+ rating, as well as daily protection for added protection against premature aging and cancerous growths.
3. Winter Conditions Can Remove Sunscreen Faster
You might think you’re using enough sunscreen when applying it to your skin, but you need to know that your skin can lose protection even when the sun isn’t shining. If you’re going outside in cold weather, the sudden temperature change can cause your sunscreen to break down quicker and leave your skin vulnerable.
Winter storms can also be a nuisance for constant reapplication; heavy winds, rain, and snow can remove sunscreen from your skin within minutes. If you have to go outside for extended periods under winter conditions, it’s recommended that you use a water-resistant and sweat-proof product to increase your chance of sunburn protection.
4. Winter Sports Put You At Higher Risk of UV Exposure
November through March is one of many times of the year when it’s essential to protect your skin from UV exposure.
It would be best to use sunscreen when you’re getting ready to exercise in a winter sport, including skating, skiing, snowboarding, or even going out on a cross-country course. Your body’s ability to handle harsh UV exposure is significantly reduced at this time of year due to the effects of low temperatures on your skin and eyes.
Additionally, you should use sunscreen even if you’re wearing sunglasses. Even though your eyes are less visible during late winter and early spring, they can still be damaged by UV rays without protection.
You can’t always avoid the sun, but there are several things you can do to protect yourself. Remembering to wear sunscreen is one of the easiest ways to reduce your chances of skin cancer and maintain healthy, youthful skin.