Although the temperatures are dropping and the sun is setting earlier each day, that doesn’t mean that you should put away your sunscreen. In fact, as any dermatologist will probably tell you, protecting your skin is something that you should do all year-round!
Believe it or not, getting sunburned during the winter is just as easy as it is in the summer.
For example: When a lot of people think of winter, they think of snow. However, did you know that snow reflects the sun’s rays? If you ski (or spend your time outside doing winter sports), the higher altitude combined with the UV rays reflected by the snow increases your chances of suffering from sun damage.
Aside from snow reflecting UV rays onto your skin, there are also many other reasons that you shouldn’t put your sunscreen to the back of your medicine cabinet. Here are two:
The sun is closer to the Earth in the winter.
Contrary to popular belief, and as indicated by the Library of Congress, the sun is further away from the Earth in the summer and closer to it in the summer. So, when you are out there driving and facing the sun, walking your dog or taking a run outside, etc., it is wise to put on some sunscreen.
Not only is the sun closer, but the ozone layer is at its thinnest.
As per the National Science Foundation Polar Programs UV Monitoring Network, the already-thinning ozone layer is at its thinnest during the winter months. Therefore, even more harmful UVB rays could damage your skin.
The sun’s rays combined with the cold winter winds can also leave your skin feeling dry and thus more prone to being sunburnt.
In the end, not only should you NOT skip wearing sunscreen during the winter, but you should also keep your skin extra moisturized.
As a premier plastic surgeon in NYC, Dr. Jennifer Levine strongly urges everyone to wear sunscreen during the winter months, as well as keep their skin moisturized at all times.
After all, not only will wearing sunscreen and the right moisturizers keep your skin protected and hydrated, but it will also help to prevent lines and wrinkles from forming!