Just because the sun isn’t beaming down on you during the winter doesn’t mean your skin is safe from UVA/UVB rays. The sun is more powerful than you think so don’t be fooled into letting your guard down when the temperature starts to cool down. The winter months also pose a threat to the health of your skin. Taking a few extra steps in your skin and sun care can help keep you safe all year long.

Whether you realize it or not, the sun doesn’t have to be shining for it to damage your skin. The radiation that comes from the sun is powerful enough to penetrate through clouds and any other environmental element so it’s just as harmful to expose unprotected skin to the sun on an overcast day as it is in the summertime.

If the idea of applying sunscreen in the dead of winter sounds silly, there are other alternatives to sun care during the winter. Include a moisturizer with SPF protection in your daily skincare routine. Whenever you plan to step out during the day and plan to spend a good amount of time outdoors, this type of moisturizer will keep your complexion safe. Or you can use high-grade SPF makeup products to get overall protection for your face.  

Sun care during the winter may not make much sense or seem too important, but extreme temperatures also create damaging conditions for even the healthiest skin. Dry skin is a common condition that tends to flare up during colder seasons. Rashes, flakiness, redness, irritation and other common symptoms of dry skin can break down the skin’s natural defenses, making it a prime target for other problems, like eczema and psoriasis. On top of that, having weak skin during the winter makes it extremely vulnerable to sun damage. Weak skin combined with UV rays can easily result in fine lines, wrinkles, age spots, thinning of the skin and other signs of premature aging.

Give your skin a fighting chance by carrying moisturizer with you in your purse, in your car or have it on hand at your desk at work. Protect your hands as well as your face by using a soothing hand cream throughout the day that also contains SPF to prevent thinning, vein-covered and dry, parched skin on your hands. Avoid dehydration by drinking water often and avoiding caffeinated beverages.

Harsh winter elements such as wind, snow and extreme cold can also cause the skin to crack, peel and bleed. Wear lip balm that has SPF 15 or higher to heal and repair damaged lips. Remember, even lips can get sunburned and there’s nothing worse than dealing with dry, peeling lips. Protective clothing during the winter will not only help you stay warm but will also act as a guard against the cold and sun. Moisturizer should be your best friend during these months. Lotions and creams that contain broad-spectrum sunscreen and nourishing ingredients like oatmeal, soy, chamomile and lavender are perfect for daily use on your face and body.

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