When winter comes, many people toss their sunscreen aside as the cold sun doesn't harm your skin, right? Not true, UV rays do not take a vacation in winter either. The sun emits harmful UV rays regardless of temperature and clouds that can still reach and affect your skin, though at a slower pace. If you want healthy, glowing, youthful skin then sunscreen is essential year-round.

Let's break down why SPF is still important in winter and how best to select a winter sunscreen that protects and creates soft, moisturized skin.

Why You Need Sunscreen in Winter

While you may not "feel" the sun burning your skin during the winter months, deep down your skin is still suffering damage. Here is how:

UV Rays Are Still Strong

Even during the winter months, approximately up to 80% of UV rays can penetrate clouds. UVA rays, the main culprits behind premature aging and pigmentation, are steady all year round.

Snow Reflects UV Radiation

If you live in or visit a snowy place, the risk is double. Snow reflects upwards of 80% of UV radiation, which doubles the amount of sun exposure your skin is receiving because you receive direct exposure and indirect exposure just by being near the snow.

High Altitude, Higher Risk

When you stay in hilly or elevated areas, UV exposure increases by approximately 5% for every 1,000 feet of elevation. This is why your skin sometimes feels dry and tight after a winter vacation.

Ozone Layer is Thinner

In winter, the ozone layer that blocks harmful UV rays becomes thinner for certain parts of the world which allows more radiation to reach your skin.

The Best Sunscreen Texture for Winter

Your skin behaves differently in winter — it is dry, sensitive, and dull. So your sunscreen should do more than protect, it should hydrate, soothe, nourish and deliver moisture to your skin.

So here's what to look for:

Hydrating Base: Look for a moisturizer gel for the face or a creamy sunscreen that contains ceramides, hyaluronic acid, or glycerin. These ingredients help you combat dryness and marked skin.

Best Sunscreen for Winter Depending on Skin Type

Your skin type is majorly important in determining which sunscreen suits you best. Below, I tell you how to determine wisely.

1. Dry and Sensitive Skin

• If your skin has a tight, flaky feel, you need to feel hydrated. You will want a:
• Cream-based sunscreen with shea butter or ceramides.
• Formula that is fragrance-free and alcohol-free.

Products marketed as "best sunscreen for dry sensitive skin" — these are a combination of SPF protection plus moisturizers.

2. Oily or Combination Skin

An oily skin type can even break out in winter with sunscreen if it feels too heavy. You might like:

• Gel-based sunscreens with a moisturizer-like gel face texture.
• Ingredients like niacinamide or green tea to help with oil.
• Mattifying sunscreens that control shine without drying out your skin.

3. Normal Skin

You're lucky! You can choose from a range. Just remember to choose something that is SPF 30+ and that has hydrating ingredients.

4. Acne-Prone Skin

Use oil-free, non-comedogenic sunscreens. And look for ingredients like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide since they provide protection without blocking pores.

SPF & PA: What do these ratings really mean?

Higher SPF levels do not always equate to better protection. SPF (sun protection factor) measures protection against UVB rays (the rays that cause sunburn). SPF 30 filters approximately 97% of UVB rays while SPF 50 filters 98%.

PA Rating is the rating for protection against UVA rays, you get more pluses for better protection (PA+, PA++, & PA+++).

For winter, look for a sunscreen that is SPF 30-50 PA+++.

How to Properly Apply Sunscreen During Winter

Even the top-rated sunscreen for winter may not work properly if it is applied incorrectly. Here is how to properly apply sunscreen:

1. Apply It after Moisturizer. Make sure to fully absorb your moisturizer, and then put sunscreen on top of it.
2. Apply Enough. Most people use too little sunscreen when applying. You should be using about a teaspoon of sunscreen on your face and neck.
3. Do Not Skip on Cloudy days. Clouds and glass do not completely block UV rays, which still will penetrate through, arriving on your skin.
4. Reapply every 2 - 3 hours of sun exposure during outdoor activities.
5. Do Not Forget the Neck, Ears, and Hands. These areas are generally the first areas to show prominent aging signs.

Sunscreen and Glowing Skin - The Connection

If your goal is to achieve glowing and even skin tone, your secret weapon is sunscreen.

Using sunscreen consistently for glowing skin can help:

• Prevent sun spots and pigmentation.
• Reduce dullness from sun damage.
• Maintain collagen and youthful skin tone.
• Preserve natural skin glow, even in harsh winter winds.

Remember, no serums or face creams can repair skin from sun damage as much as applying sunscreen can prevent any irritation.

Sunscreen with Face Moisturizer Gel Combination

Winter skin care is not about layering your skin with random products. Winter skin care is about building a skin care routine that locks in moisture and protects your skin barrier.

Step-by-step routine:

1. Gentle face wash.
2. Hydrating toner or mist.
3. Moisturizer gel for face (preferably with hyaluronic acid or ceramides).
4. Best sunscreen for winter with SPF 30 or higher.

This simple routine keeps your skin soft, comfortable, and naturally glowing all day.

• Additional Recommendations for Keeping Your Skin Healthy this Winter
• Stay hydrated — indoor heat can dry out your skin.
• Use a humidifier in the evening to avoid moisture loss.
• Avoid over-exfoliating; try once a week during the colder months.
• Slather on sunscreen if you are near windows or screens for an extended period of time.

FAQs

1. Do I need sunscreen in winter?
Yes. UV rays do not go away just because it is colder than the summer months. UVA rays are present year-round, and can penetrate deep into your skin, causing aging and pigmentation.

2. Can I use the same sunscreen I use in the summer?
You can use the same sunscreen, but your skin may need more hydration in the winter months. It may be helpful to switch to a creamier sunscreen and/or gel that helps to hydrate your skin.

3. Is SPF 30 enough for winter months?
Yes, SPF 30 PA+++ is adequate for everyday use, except if you are skiing or going to be spending extended time outdoors in the winter months where SPF 50 is best.

4. Do I need to apply sunscreen in the winter if I am inside?
Yes, UVA rays can penetrate glass, so if you are sitting close to a window while working, you still need protection against UV rays.

5. What is the best sunscreen for dry sensitive skin?
For best results, use a hydrating, fragrance-free sunscreen that has added ceramides or hyaluronic acid, which both help to soothe irritation and hydrate the skin barrier.

Disclaimer

This article is for educational purposes only. The information here is not meant to replace medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always check product ingredients and patch test topically before use if you have sensitive skin or known sensitivities. Always consult your dermatologist for advice based on your skin type and skin condition.