With summer coming to an end soon, that does not mean your daily sun protection should too. The damaging sun’s rays shine everyday regardless of the temperature making it imperative to protect your skin throughout the year. However, most people link sun damage to the heat of the sun and are not as diligent about protecting their skin during other seasons. The ultraviolet A and B rays are still strong enough to cause damage in the winter and on cloudy days. It is just as pivotal to use sun protection daily regardless of the temperature or weather outside.
Sun Damage When It Is Snowing
UV radiation from the sun is one of the most damaging factors that causes our skin to age more quickly. The strength of the UV radiation is just as strong in the winter months as it is in the summer. Those who participate in winter sports such as skiing and snowboarding are at higher risk for sun damage during the winter. These sports typically take place at higher altitudes where the UV rays are more intense.
Protect Your Skin Throughout the Year
The season should not alter your sun protection regimen. A sunscreen with a broad spectrum of an SPF of 30 or higher should be utilized every day. If applied every 2 hours this will block 97% of the sun’s UV rays. It is best to use a broad spectrum sunscreen such as Skin Medica’s Total Defense and Repair a SPF 35 or Aponi Antioxidant Moisturizing Sunscreen SPF 50+ because it protects your skin against both UVA and UVB rays all year round.
