January 30, 2025

Sunscreen: The Overlooked Winter Essential

Sunscreen: The Overlooked Winter Essential

Did you know that the common belief that sunscreen isn’t necessary in the fall and winter is completely false? Many people associate sun protection with summer vacations at the beach, thinking that sunscreen is only useful for preventing sunburns during hot, sunny days. However, this misconception ignores the fact that UV rays are present year-round—even in winter.

While it’s true that sunburns (erythema) are less frequent in colder months, this doesn’t mean UV rays disappear. In fact, they penetrate through clouds and windows, making unprotected skin vulnerable even on overcast days. UV exposure remains the number one cause of premature aging, including wrinkles and hyperpigmentation (dark spots). Additionally, snow on the ground acts like a mirror, reflecting UV rays in all directions—just like sand and water do in the summer. Cold temperatures can also be misleading, as they mask the burning sensation typically associated with sun exposure.

Winter brings its own set of skin challenges, such as dryness, redness, temperature fluctuations between indoors and outdoors, and harsh winds. That’s why applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 every two hours, regardless of the season, ensures continuous and effective protection against UV damage.

By Jean-Michel Tremblay