Top Winter Sunscreen Advice
Sunscreen is so important in both the summer and winter months. Although we envision the winter full of snow, the sun can often still be seen shining through, unknowingly causing damage to our skin. The dermatologists at the Dermatology & Mohs Surgery Institute have the top winter sunscreen advice to share with you to ensure your skin stays healthy.
How to Use Sunscreen in the Winter
Wear Sunscreen Daily
Year-round, it is important to make sunscreen part of your daily routine. Even though the ground may be covered in snowflakes and the weather may feel extremely cold, it is likely that the sun may also be shining down or hiding behind the clouds. If you are not wearing sunscreen, you are risking a sunburn or sun damage to your exposed body areas from the sun’s harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays.
The sun is most harmful during the hours of 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., even if you cannot actually see it. The sun’s UV rays still come through and can cause damage if your skin is not protected with sunscreen. Additionally, the sun often reflects off the snow and ice during the winter months. It is best to make a habit of using sunscreen each morning before you leave the house to ensure you are always protected.
Use Sunscreen With 30 SPF or Higher to Help Lower Your Risk of Getting Skin Cancer
When you find the sunscreen you are going to use daily, make sure that it has an SPF of at least 30. In the summer, you may want it higher to ensure extra protection. Using sunscreen daily protects you from sun damage but also lowers your risk of getting skin cancer. Skin cancer is often caused by sun damage. If it isn’t treated immediately, it could turn fatal. By using sunscreen daily, not only are you protecting your skin from a sunburn, but you are protecting it from something that could have lifelong consequences.
If you notice signs of skin cancer, such as changing moles or new moles, reach out to a dermatologist as soon as possible.
A Hydrating and Moisturizing Sunscreen Can Keep Your Skin Youthful
Not only does sunscreen protect against sunburn and skin cancer, but it can also help keep your skin looking ageless. It is imperative to find a sunscreen that works for your skin type. If you have dry skin, you will want to find a sunscreen with hydrating ingredients such as hyaluronic acid. It will help your skin retain moisture and feel hydrated throughout the day. If you have oily skin, you will want to find a sunscreen that feels light on your skin. This will help to avoid the skin from appearing shiny or the sunscreen from feeling too heavy. Sunscreen should always go on last during your skin routine. If you consistently use sunscreen daily, you will notice a change in your skin’s texture and tone that keeps your skin youthful.
Following this advice daily and year-round will keep your skin protected from sun damage and skin cancer and ensure your skin looks ageless. If you have questions and are in Bloomington, Illinois, or the surrounding area, complete this form, and the dermatologists at the Dermatology & Mohs Surgery Institute will be happy to help.