IMPORTANCE OF SUNSCREEN – EVEN THROUGH THE WINTER

Many people think that sunscreen is only important during the summer months. However, wearing sunscreen is just as important during the winter as it is during the summer. There are several ways you will be able to benefit by wearing sunscreen during the cold months that will keep you skin beautiful and healthy year round.

With dermatology offices throughout Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and Rhode Island, APDerm’s goal is to help you get and maintain healthy, glowing skin. Skin care is an essential part of everyone’s daily routine and should always include sunscreen. To find out more great winter skin care tips, call (978) 707-6208  or click here to schedule your appointment. Below are some of the reasons you should continue to wear sunscreen during the winter.

You Can Still Get a Sunburn

The UVB rays are often referred to as the burning rays. They are the type of ultraviolet rays that cause sunburn. Even though those rays are stronger during the summer, they can still cause sunburn during the winter. Surprisingly, the sun is actually closer to the earth during the winter months, making your chances of sunburn that much higher.

Decrease Your Risk of Skin Cancer

One of the main reasons sunscreen is recommended throughout the entire year is because of the risk of skin cancer. The UVB rays are the type of ultraviolet rays that have been linked to skin cancer. These rays are still very strong during the winter months. Simply adding sunscreen to your skin every morning can lower your risk of getting skin cancer. We recommend using an EltaMD sunscreen that is SPF30 or higher for the best protection.

Keep Your Skin Looking Young

If you want to keep your skin looking as youthful as possible, then sunscreen is a must! The skin cancer-causing UVB rays can also deplete the collagen in your skin. This can cause skin sagging. It can also cause your skin to age prematurely. In fact, it is estimated that 90 percent of wrinkles are caused by excessive exposure to UVB rays.

Ice And Snow Reflect UV Rays

If you will be snowboarding, skiing or participating in any other winter sport, then you actually need to wear a stronger sunscreen. The ice and snow both reflect UV rays. We recommend wearing a EltaMD sunscreen product with a SPF of 30 to 50 if you will be participating in a snow sport. Just because it’s cold, doesn’t mean the sun and UV rays are not still extremely strong.

The Ozone Layer Is Thinner

The ozone layer is the part of the atmosphere that absorbs the radiation from the sun. However, the ozone layer is thinner during the winter months. That is why you have less protection from the sun. Even though the winter outside is colder, your skin may be absorbing more of the ultraviolet rays.

It is necessary to wear sunscreen at all times when you are outdoors, regardless of the time of the year. You will be protecting yourself from sunburn and skin cancer by wearing sunscreen. You will also be protecting your skin from wrinkles and other signs of premature aging.