Should you use sunscreen in winter?

Cold weather does not tell you the UV level

Ultraviolet radiation, or UV, is sunlight you cannot see or feel. The warmth you feel comes from infrared radiation, not UV, so feeling cold is not a useful test of sun exposure. UV can cause sunburn even on cloudy days. UVA contributes to skin ageing and skin cancer; UVB causes sunburn and also contributes to skin cancer. UVB exposure changes with latitude, altitude and the time of year, which means a winter day does not carry the same risk everywhere.3

Snow and altitude need extra attention

Snow reflects sunlight upwards as well as receiving it from above, giving the scenery a second job that rarely makes the holiday brochure. That reflection increases UV exposure, and higher altitudes add to the risk during skiing or snowboarding. For snowy outings, choose broad spectrum SPF 50 or higher on exposed skin. Sun protection belongs in the plan for sledding, snowshoeing and shovelling, not just a full day on the slopes. Protect your lips with an SPF lip balm and wear sunglasses.24

Check the UV index, not just the forecast temperature

Check the UV index in a weather app or website before outdoor plans. A reading of 3 or higher is a prompt to protect your skin. Sunscreen on exposed areas remains a practical year round habit, especially for winter activities around snow. Limit midday exposure: the sun's rays are generally strongest between 10am and 4pm, including in winter.235

How to apply sunscreen in winter

1. 1Choose broad spectrum protection, meaning protection against both UVA and UVB, with SPF 30 or higher and water resistance. On UK labels, look for at least 4 star UVA protection; UVA inside a circle indicates the EU standard.
2. 2If your skin needs moisturizer, apply it first and sunscreen on top. Apply sunscreen at least 15 minutes before exposure and follow the product directions. For outings long enough to risk burning, apply 30 minutes before leaving and again just before going out.
3. 3Cover all exposed skin generously. Include the ears, nose, back of the neck and backs of the hands. Apply sunscreen to an exposed scalp, although a hat provides better coverage. Applying too little reduces protection.
4. 4Reapply every two hours outdoors, and after sweating, water exposure or towel drying. Reapply sooner if sunscreen has rubbed off. Water resistant does not mean you can skip reapplication.

What if sunscreen feels drying in winter?

Cold outdoor air, heated indoor air and low humidity can disrupt the skin's barrier, the outer layer that helps retain moisture. Choose a more moisturizing sunscreen cream rather than a lotion or spray, or use a separate moisturizer underneath. Winter dryness is particularly relevant if you have eczema or psoriasis. Keep clothing and shade in the routine too: gloves cover hands, and sunglasses with UV protection protect the eyes. Sunscreen is one part of protection, not a replacement for covering up.15

Who should be especially careful?

Winter sun protection applies to every skin tone. Take particular care if you have a personal or family history of skin cancer. Children also need extra protection; keep babies under six months out of direct strong sunlight. If you get sunburned, stay out of the sun until the redness has gone. Seek medical help if you feel unwell or the skin swells badly or blisters.25