We all know the importance of wearing sunscreen during the hot summer months – but turns out, it’s just as important (if not more) to wear sunscreen once the temperature drops.
If you don’t believe us, take it from leading dermatologists as they share why your skin needs proper sun protection in the winter along with the best sun care tips below.
Why is SPF still so important in the winter?
“SPF application should be seen as a daily preventative regimen year-round because UVA rays penetrate through clouds and can even reflect off of snow banks and icy patches,” notes Dr. Craig Kraffert, board-certified dermatologist and president of Amarte. Plus, “the sun still emits damaging UVA rays during the winter and can affect aging skin,” adds Dr. Paul Jarrod Frank, celebrity cosmetic dermatologist and founder of PFRANKMD™.
Why does your skin become more sensitive during the winter?
During the long, drawn-out days of winter, your skin produces less melanin, which means it can’t fight against pigmentation as effectively as it does during summer. Dr. Dennis Gross, a board-certified dermatologist and dermatologic surgeon, swears by his Dark Spot Sun Defense as it protects against photo-aging and sun damage while delivering hydrating, anti-aging, and brightening properties.
What if my skin is already damaged from the cold?
When skin is irritated from the harsh elements, it’s important to replenish the skin’s barrier and protect it from future damage with “a sunscreen [that contains] hydrating ingredients like Aveeno Protect + Hydrate Lotion Sunscreen SPF 50. It’s fortified with colloidal oatmeal to help moisturize the skin as well as restore pH levels,” shares Dr. Joshua Zeichner, the director of cosmetic and clinical research at Mount Sinai Hospital’s Department of Dermatology in New York City.
Is there anything to make your SPF last longer?
Since the skin barrier tends to be more damaged in winter, it’s important for sunscreen to have something to cling onto in order for it to work properly. “So, for best SPF protection, you need to use a barrier repairing moisturizer, like an Epionce Renewal Facial Cream, before applying sunscreen. It will help the sunscreen to work more effectively,” notes Dr. Carl Thornfeldt, dermatologist and founder of Epionce.
xx, The FabFitFun Team
