Sunscreen During Winter: Is it Necessary

It’s officially winter time! While we Floridians don’t exactly experience the typical winter weather that most of the other parts of the country do, we still have to deal with cooler than usual temperatures and fewer sunny days. I’m not complaining though! Even though the sun’s powerful rays may seem weaker now, it’s still recommended by dermatologists and skincare experts that we use sunscreen year round. This is because the intensity of the sun, or how strong or weak you perceive that intensity to be, doesn’t indicate the actual sun exposure your body is experiencing.

The Presence of UVA and UVB Rays

UVB rays are the rays that cause sunburns. Their intensity varies from summer to winter. In contrast, the strength of UVA rays remains consistently strong from summer to winter. Though UVA rays do not cause painful sunburns, they are able to penetrate deeper into your skin, which can result in the skin damage that is associated with gaining or skin cancer. This is exactly why you shouldn’t slack off on your daily sunscreen routine during the winter months; just because the sun physically feels less damaging, doesn’t mean that it’s not harming your skin.

Winter Skincare Routine

Even during the winter months, it’s important to use a broad spectrum sunscreen that contains “physical blockers” like zinc oxide or titanium oxide. The best physical blocker for both UVA and UVB rays is zinc oxide. Make sure to apply it every day to skin that is left uncovered by clothing and that will be exposed to the sun. Adding a high-concentration antioxidant skincare product to your facial care routine is also highly recommended to help protect skin and keep it looking youthful and radiant for years to come.

Protect and Preserve

Maybe you’re one of those people who haven’t gotten into the routine of applying sunscreen every day, even in the summer. That’s ok! It’s never too late to protect your skin. Keep in mind, that the sun is the only natural source of Vitamin D in the world. Did you know that? Now you do! While it’s always good to use sunscreen, make sure you’re also taking some time each day to enjoy the sun in all of its glory. It can help boost your mood and improve overall mental and physical health.

Aren’t sure which sunscreen to use? Come to Botanica! One of our skincare experts will be happy to recommend some of our favorite products.

Love,

Gen