No, You Don't Get a Sunscreen Break Just Because It's January
Winter sun is sneakier than summer sun, and here's the receipts.
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.
Frequently asked questions
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.
Is sunscreen necessary on cloudy days?
Yes. Up to 80% of UV rays pass through clouds, and UVA — the deeper-penetrating, aging wavelength — stays fairly constant regardless of cloud cover. A cool, overcast day can still deliver enough UV to damage skin, so daily broad-spectrum sunscreen is recommended.
r/SkincareAddiction: 'Do I really need sunscreen in the dead of winter?'
Sources & citations
- Skin Cancer Foundation, '5 Sneaky Ways You're Being Exposed to the Sun's UV Rays'
- skincancer.org ↗