It’s time to pack up your shorts and tank tops and pull out your winter wardrobe. However, just because the sun is no longer shining as brightly doesn’t mean you should stop protecting your skin.
At Specialists in Dermatology in the Woodlands and Houston, Texas, our team of dermatologists and aestheticians understand the importance of year-round sun protection in keeping your skin looking its best. Although we offer many cosmetic services to erase sun damage, prevention is always the best strategy.
Here are four reasons why you should always use sun protection, even during winter:
UV rays — which cause mutations in your skin cells that lead to skin cancer and premature aging — can penetrate clouds and fog. Even if you’re out on an overcast day, those UV rays are still reaching your skin. That’s why you should always wear sunscreen to truly safeguard your skin against damage.
Ever wonder why you have a sunburn after a day of skiing? Snow reflects up to 80% of the sun’s UV rays, bouncing them right back onto your skin. So even if the sun doesn’t feel strong, it’s hitting you from all angles when you're outdoors in snowy weather.
Not only does this damage affect your skin, but your eyes are also at risk. UV exposure can lead to snow blindness, a painful condition caused by sunburn on the eyes. That’s why it’s crucial to wear both sunscreen and UV-blocking sunglasses.
Whether you’re skiing, snowboarding, or simply taking a walk, protecting your skin and eyes in winter is just as important as it is in summer.
Your skin’s natural barrier, called the stratum corneum, is made up of tough skin cells that lock in moisture and protect against environmental stressors.
When there’s more warm moisture in the air, your skin (and its protective barrier) remain strong. When the air turns cold and dry, though, that moisture evaporates more quickly, leaving your skin vulnerable to dryness, cracking, and increased sensitivity to UV damage.
Sunscreen, lip balm, and even petroleum jelly provide an extra layer of protection that your skin needs during the winter months.
The combination of strong UV rays, cold, dry air, and a weakened skin barrier accelerates the aging process, leading to fine lines, wrinkles, and discoloration over time. That’s why you should invest in heavier moisturizers and cut back on irritating anti aging ingredients, like alpha hydroxy acid, and continue to apply sunscreen during winter.
Sun protection is probably the last thing on your mind during winter, but it’s one of the most effective steps you can take to keep your skin healthy and free of damage.
For tips to protect your skin during winter or treatments to target existing damage, contact our team. Call Specialists in Dermatology in the Woodlands and Houston, Texas, or schedule an appointment online.
