February Sun Is Stronger Than You Think (Especially on Snow)
Late-winter UV is climbing back up — don't get caught off guard.
Snow reflects up to 80% of UV; sand reflects ~15%; water reflects ~10-30%.
Fresh snow can reflect up to 80% of UV rays, effectively doubling exposure on the slopes.
Questions we get a lot
When is the UV index high enough to need protection?
Dermatologists generally recommend sun protection whenever the UV Index is 3 or higher. Across much of the US that threshold is reached most of the year around midday — and even lower readings add up over time, so daily broad-spectrum sunscreen is a sensible default.
Do I need sunscreen in winter?
Yes. UVA rays — which cause aging and contribute to skin cancer — stay fairly constant year-round and pass through clouds and glass, and snow reflects up to 80% of UV. Daily broad-spectrum sunscreen on exposed skin is recommended in winter, especially for snow sports.
Does snow increase UV exposure?
Significantly. Fresh snow reflects up to 80% of UV rays, effectively hitting your skin twice — from the sky and from the ground. Combined with altitude on the slopes, this makes winter sun protection of the face, ears, lips and eyes essential.
r/SkincareAddiction: 'Do I really need sunscreen in the dead of winter?'