5 ways to avoid sun damage in winter

Having said that once, we say it again - 365 days a year it is necessary to use sunscreen, even in winter. "If you look at your hand, you can see enough ultraviolet rays hitting it that can cause cancer and early skin aging," says Mona Gohara, MD, assistant professor of dermatology at the Yale School of Medicine. "Of course, the sun's activity is less intense in winter, but there is still a risk," she warns. Below are five situations where a person is likely to be exposed to more sun exposure than they previously thought.

1. Skiing

No doubt this is a delightful pastime in the winter, but at the same time, there is a dangerous risk to your skin. "Snow reflects eighty percent of the sun's rays, which can be compared to sand or water," explains Gohara. This means that a day on the slopes without sunscreen can be as damaging to your body as if you were on the beach.

Defense strategy

Your face is exposed to the sun while you are warmly dressed, so it is recommended that you use a broad spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 protection level. Gohara suggests sticking with a moisturizer to help prevent the cold from drying out. and the wind.

For example, try Kate Somerville's SPF 50 Daily Protective Moisturizer and Anti-Aging Sunscreen for $ 48. In addition, it would be nice to wear glasses, as they are ideal for protecting the sensitive skin around the eyes, which, incidentally, is especially susceptible to the sun.

2. Spending time indoors

You might think that if you are at home you don't need sunscreen, right? You are wrong. The sun's ultraviolet rays, which are responsible for the signs of skin aging, can penetrate glass. Therefore, even when you are comfortable on the couch and watch the snow fall outside the window, your skin is also vulnerable. “The same thing can happen to your skin as to a faded painting on the wall,” emphasizes Gohara.

Defense strategy

Sorry that we are repeating ourselves (although, in fact, this is very important), but the best thing you can do for yourself is to use a cream with at least SPF 30 protection every single day. a spectrum of action, indicating protection against ultraviolet rays of the spectrum A and B. Of course, the choice is only yours. We recommend SPF 50 Exuviance Daily Sunscreen, which costs $ 42. It has a toning effect and is a good option to use on days when you don't wear makeup. It is very important to apply a small amount of cream to the entire face in order to provide the necessary protection.

3. Brief moments spent outdoors

When the weather is cold outside, you obviously do not want to leave the house for a long time, but even in a short time you may have some problems. Sun damage builds up gradually, such as walking out for a minute and picking up your mail, running out of the office for five minutes to drink coffee, or walking your dog for ten minutes - all add up and can have serious consequences.

Defense strategy

Have we already made it clear to you that it is very important to use sunscreen? Clothing is another option for protection, and it will also keep your body warm. A hat is a great way to protect your scalp, gloves protect your hands, and a scarf covers your neck and chest. Get dressed!

4. Working day

In addition to being exposed to ultraviolet rays entering your office through a window, there is another unexpected and hidden source of damage. This refers to the visible light emitted by light bulbs. According to Gohara, this type of energy is different from the sun's rays and can damage the skin and cause melanoma.

Defense strategy

Gohara suggests purchasing a cream containing iron oxides, which have been shown to block visible light. For example, SPF 30 Colorescience brush applied sunscreen is priced at $ 57. Its formula has the added benefit of being able to be applied multiple times a day, even over makeup.

5. Chapped lips that are actually burned

Although, as Gohara notes, in winter, lips can be chapped rather than burned, the latter can also happen. Even if you diligently apply sunscreen to your face, most people often forget to protect their lips.

Defense strategy

Anyway, everyone should apply lip balm regularly in winter, so why not choose one that contains SPF and solve all your problems in one fell swoop? We recommend you try CeraVe Medicated Lip Balm, which costs $ 5, which contains skin-firming ceramides and nourishing Vitamin E. By the way, if you are going to spend a lot of time outdoors, you should avoid using lip gloss, as excess gloss can attract more sunlight. causing the likelihood of burns.