Winter has a cozy feel: Warm beverages, nice sweaters, and foggy mornings. However, your skin still needs  Sun Protection in Winter is something most people don't understand. The winter months may trick you into thinking that the sun is not strong enough for your skin to become burned but the Sun's harmful UV rays do not go away during the winter.

The Winter Sun Myth

The winter sun feels so much weaker than summertime, and because of those cloudy days many people neglect to apply sunscreen during the winter months. What many people do not realise is that UV rays can penetrate through clouds and fog and even glass! Although the amount of UVB rays that create sunburns will probably decrease during the winter, there are still consistent levels of UVA rays that age the skin and cause pigment to darken.

So even during the coldest days and overcast afternoons, your skin will still be getting the same level of UVA rays that lead to the formation of fine lines, dull skin, and uneven skin tone.

So if you're wondering why you look older and more tired during the winter months than you do in the summertime, one possible culprit is lack of SPF. When choosing the best sunscreen for normal skin in India , it's essential to pick one that hydrates and protects even on cloudy days.

WINTER SUN DAMAGE FACTS

Snow Reflects UV Rays

Snow can reflect up to 80% of the sun's UV rays, which means you are being hit twice–once from the sun itself, and the second time from snow on the ground. If you are going to be outdoors or in a hilly area, sunscreen is mandatory. Using the best sunscreen combination skin can help keep your skin balanced and protected all day long.

Late Days, Long Sunlight Exposure

Even a short 15-minute walk in the morning on your way to work or sitting by your window while you work, can expose your skin to sunlight. Since UVA rays can penetrate through glass, they still have an impact on your skin while you are working from home. Choosing a sunscreen for sensitive skin can prevent irritation while keeping you protected.

Dry Skin = Increased Risk for Sunburn

Cold air and heating systems dry out your skin, and dry skin is more susceptible to UV radiation. Once your skin barrier has been compromised due to dryness, UV radiation can penetrate your skin and cause additional damage from within and increase your risk of accelerated aging and sensitivity.

Dark Spots Become Darker in Winter

Most people think that winter helps fade dark spots. The truth is that winter sun exposure without protection will result in a darkening of any existing pigmentation, and slow down any repair process. 

How to Build a Winter Skincare Routine with SPF

A balanced winter skincare routine doesn’t need to be complicated. The key is hydration plus protection.

Step One - Gentle Cleanser

Our skin dries out faster during winter, so use a gentle cleanser to remove dirt and excess oil without stripping moisture from your skin. Look for sulfate-free formulas. As a rule, cleanse twice daily (AM and PM) to keep your pores clean while avoiding irritation and swollen skin.

Step Two - Deep Moisturiser

After cleansing and before hydrating, use the right moisturiser for your skin type. Find a rich, ceramide-based non greasy moisturiser 

Providing moisture to your skin and maintaining your skin's barrier gives your skin a greater chance of protecting itself from the cold and harsh rays of the sun.

Step Three - Sunscreen

This is where many people fail: using sunscreen. Always use it every day, regardless of whether you are indoors or outside on cloudy days.No matter which sunscreen you use — whether it’s  sunscreen gel for oily skin or any, it should have SPF between 30-50

Myths & Facts about using sunscreen in winter

Myth 1: You only need to wear sunscreen on sunny days
Fact: UVA rays do not rely on brightness for their strength. On cloudy/foggy days, as much as 80% of UV radiation can still reach your skin.

Myth 2: People with darker skin do not need to wear sunscreen
Fact: Melanin does provide some level of protection, but not nearly enough to prevent long-term damage or even skin tone.

Myth 3: SPF is not needed on days spent inside
Fact: UVA rays will go through glass, so you should wear sunscreen if you are sitting by windows or using your computer or phone. Also, the blue light emitted by computers and phones creates dullness and premature aging.

How to have smooth, glowing skin throughout the winter

Having smooth glowing skin isn't only accomplished by wearing sunscreen; there are several other ways you can achieve smooth glowing skin this winter:

DRINK PLENTY OF WATER! Even though you may not be working out right now, staying hydrated will help keep your complexion bright. If your skin is dehydrated, it will have a dull appearance.

USE ANTIOXIDANTS! Look for serums that contain either vitamin C or niacinamide and use them underneath your sunscreen to help boost your skin’s protection against UV rod damage.

DON’T EXFOLIATE TOO MUCH! Exfoliating should be done once every week or two using a mild exfoliant.

USE LUKEWARM WATER! Taking hot showers can lead to dry skin quicker than lukewarm water.

DON’T FORGET ABOUT YOUR NIGHTTIME ROUTINE! At night, after you cleanse your face, make sure that you apply a hydrating product to replace moisture lost while sleeping.

How to Properly Apply Sunscreen in the Winter:

1. Apply a generous amount of sunscreen (1/2 teaspoon) on your face and neck.
2. Apply it last, after all the creams and moisturisers, and before makeup.
3. Wait a few minutes for the sunscreen to set before going outside.
4. Apply to all other exposed areas of the body (ears, neck, hands, etc.).

Why Consistency is Important: 

Sunscreen's results may not appear instantly due to the long-term benefits it provides by maintaining an even skin tone, preventing premature aging, and preventing undetectable UV damage. Therefore, think of SPF as your invisible daily shield, which may not be visible but will become very important to your skin. 

When you don't use sunscreen for a week or two in the winter, it can undo months of good skin care efforts.

Quick Winter SPF Checklist

• Use SPF 30+ daily
  
• Reapply every 3–4 hours outdoors
  
• Pair it with a good moisturiser
  
• Pick a texture suited to your skin type
  
• Protect neck, ears, and hands too

Frequently Asked Questions:

Q1. Am I required to use sunscreen during the winter?
Yes, UVA rays are present all year long and they continue to cause skin damage even when it is cold or cloudy outside.

Q2. When should I reapply sunscreen during the wintertime?
If you are outside, every three-four hours; if you are inside most of the time, you should apply it once a day.

Q3. Can I use sunscreen as a substitute for my daily moisturizer in the winter?
No! Sunscreen protects against UV rays, but moisturizer hydrates and repairs, so you will need both.

Q4. What type of sunscreen should I use if I have oily skin?
Sunscreens made in gel form work best for oily skin. They are usually lightweight and oil free, and do not clog pores.

Q5. Should I put on sunscreen if I am indoors?
Yes, if you are near a window or spend a lot of time looking at screens. Blue light and UVA rays will both penetrate through your windows or screens and damage your skin.

Disclaimer

This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional dermatological advice. Individual skin types vary, so always patch test before trying new products or consult your dermatologist for personalized recommendations.