Just because the weather is cooler, or downright frigid, doesn’t mean the sun’s rays are any less harmful. In fact, sunscreen may be even more necessary in the colder months of the year. Here are five common misconceptions about wearing sunscreen in winter.
1. The damage is already done.
Previous studies once indicated that the majority of our lifetime sun exposure was already achieved by age 18. Now, scientists believe that you have only received a quarter of your lifetime exposure by that time, so it’s important to protect your skin regardless of your age.
2. Its cloudy/cool so exposure won’t be harmful.
Wrong. UVA rays, the ones that penetrate deep into your skin causing aging and other changes in your skin, are just as strong in the winter as in summer. Heat has nothing to do with it. UVB rays, the ones that burn the surface of your skin, do vary in intensity throughout the year. This may erroneously lead outdoor lovers to think that no sunburn = no sun damage.
3. I’m in my car so I’m protected.
Sorry, even tinted windows don’t block UVA rays. Compare the left side of your body to the right. If you drive a lot, you might notice more freckles or a slightly deeper skin tone on that side. There could even be more (gasp!) wrinkles on the side nearest the windows. Folks in milder climates are also exposing themselves to more UVB rays while driving with the windows or sunroof open.
4. But I want to soak up that precious vitamin D!
Great! Basking in the sun is truly the best and simplest way of getting this important nutrient. That doesn’t mean you have to go completely unguarded. Applying sunscreen after about 10 minutes of sun exposure will give you a good dose of D while limiting any dangers.
5. That sunscreen I bought back in June isn’t good anymore.
Sunscreen has a shelf life of about three years so no need to worry about it going bad. Check the bottle for an expiration date and always think about your skin.
Related article: 3 Natural Sunburn Remedies
Featured Image from Cristina Gottardi/Unsplash
