UV rays are the primary cause of skin aging, particularly UVA rays, which penetrate the dermis and directly damage cells. Invisible and painless, UVA rays are nevertheless constant, summer and winter alike. It is therefore important to protect your skin with sunscreen throughout the year, regardless of the season.
Why Use Sunscreen in Winter?
When we think of sun protection, we often think of sun, summer, beach, vacation, and tanning. However, the dangers associated with UV ray exposure don't stop at winter's door. Even in the absence of strong heat, skin needs appropriate protection.
Applying sunscreen in winter is essential skincare for the face and exposed areas, as UV rays remain present daily.
The Dangers of UV Rays in Winter
During the winter season, the dangers related to UV exposure are multiple. The main risk comes from UVA rays, less known than UVB rays responsible for sunburn.
Unlike UVB rays, UVA rays are not detectable. They penetrate clouds, windows, and certain low-light conditions, making their danger more insidious. The only truly effective protection remains the use of sunscreen.
The risk also increases during mountain vacations. Altitude intensifies ray intensity and snow reflects up to 80% of UV rays. In January as in February, the cold limits the burning sensation, which encourages prolonged exposure without protection.
What Are the Differences Between Summer and Winter Sun Exposure?
Sun exposure in winter differs from that of summer but remains no less harmful.
- In summer: the sun being higher in the sky, rays arrive more directly and radiation intensity is higher. This is particularly true for UVB rays, responsible for sunburn. However, since the sensation of heat and danger is felt, sunscreen is applied more easily, which can ultimately limit harmful effects.
- In winter: the risks of sun exposure are too often underestimated when they are very real. Chronic exposure to UVA rays without protection acts insidiously on skin aging and the appearance of pigmentation spots. At the same time, weather conditions – wind, cold – weaken the skin barrier and make the epidermis more sensitive to UV rays.
How to Choose the Right Sunscreen for Winter?
Choosing a winter sunscreen requires as much attention as in summer. It is advisable to opt for cosmetic products suitable for daily use.
Which Protection Factors Should You Prioritize?
An effective sunscreen must cover both UVA and UVB rays.
SPF measures protection against UVB rays. For daily use in the city, SPF 30 is generally sufficient. In the mountains, in case of prolonged exposure, or for sensitive skin, SPF50 sunscreen is recommended.
Regarding the UVA protection index, its representation varies depending on brands or countries. A circle with the letters UVA inside means that the cream also protects against UVA rays. The PA+ / PA++++ rating system or stars give a more detailed idea of UVA protection intensity.
Tips for Sensitive Skin in Winter
The choice of sunscreen must also be made taking into account your skin type and condition at the time of use.
With the cold, facial skin is drier and sensitive skin more reactive. They need more comfortable textures, creamy or enriched with hydrating active ingredients like hyaluronic acid or glycerin.
There are also sun protection cosmetics adapted to sensitive skin, fragrance-free or hypoallergenic. Note that regular application, in sufficient layers, improves protection effectiveness.
The Daily Benefits of Sunscreen
Sunscreen should therefore not be reserved for the beach, and applying it daily brings numerous benefits: not only is it one of the best anti-aging gestures there is, but it's also a preventive measure, as it significantly reduces the risk of skin cancer.
Effects on Skin Aging
Dermatologists estimate that 80% of skin aging is due to the sun.
Applying sunscreen every day will protect against UVA rays responsible for aging and act as an anti-aging treatment with the following effects:
- Fewer wrinkles and fine lines,
- Fewer pigmentation spots, including melasma (pregnancy mask),
- Firmer skin for longer,
- A more even and luminous complexion.
Finally, sunscreen is non-negotiable when using retinol, AHA/BHA acids, or acne treatments, all photosensitizing, which make the skin more sensitive to radiation.
Reducing Skin Cancer Risks
Regular application also significantly reduces the risks of cancers such as melanoma and carcinomas.
UV rays, both UVA and UVB, damage the DNA of skin cells. With repeated or intense exposures, this damage can become irreversible and lead to cancer.
Integrating this essential care into your daily routine, choosing the right format, reapplying at key moments of the day, and also protecting your lips are simple but essential gestures.
Using sunscreen every day is therefore much more than a simple beauty gesture; it's a genuine long-term health investment.
FAQ
Is It Good to Wear Sunscreen Every Day?
Yes, wearing sunscreen every day is a very good idea to protect and preserve your skin, as UV rays act even without sun and are capable of penetrating clouds or windows.
Which Sunscreen Is Best in Winter?
In winter, choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen (UVA/UVB), SPF 30 minimum, ideally 50, especially in the mountains or on snow. And prioritize hydrating formulas, comfortable or even adapted to sensitive skin, and water-resistant for sports.
Which Face Cream in Winter?
In winter, it is advisable to choose formulas rich in ceramides, hyaluronic acid, shea butter, niacinamide, or squalane, which help strengthen the skin barrier and retain water in the skin.