Whether it is winter or summer, sunscreen is a forever kind of thing. You cannot step outside with a sunscreen touch. You must also carry sunscreen with you for frequent reapplication every two hours.
Also, if you assume that sunscreen is only necessary for outdoor activities, you are mistaken because UV radiation and blue light exposure indoors can also impact the skin. Learn in this blog why sun protection is important even indoors or during winter.
Are UV Radiations Harmful Even Indoors?
UV radiation can be harmful indoors, primarily from UVA rays penetrating glass windows, causing skin ageing and increasing cancer risk, plus exposure from artificial sources like tanning beds, nail lamps, and some indoor lighting. While UVB is mostly blocked by glass, UVA travels through, making sun protection near windows and from lamps important year-round, as long-term exposure adds up.
- Sources of indoor UV exposure can be artificial sources like tanning beds, some fluorescent bulbs and UV lamps in nail salons. Sunlight through windows is also one of the sources. Standard glass blocks UVB but lets UVA through. It can penetrate deeper into the skin.
- Risks like premature ageing, wrinkles, spots, increased risk of melanoma, basal cell carcinoma (BCC) and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) are still present even if you are indoors.
- It can also contribute to cataracts and eyelid cancers, which makes it essential for proper sun protection even if you are sitting inside your home.
You must have now learned the importance of wearing sunscreen indoors. Now, moving ahead, learn why you need sunscreen in winter.
Why Sunscreen is Essential Even in Winter?
Even if you are sitting at home and it is winter season, you still need sunscreen. The winter season has been mistaken for a sunscreen-free season. No! This is not true. You need your SPF even if the sun is not out in the clouds.
Sunscreen is essential in winter because harmful UVA rays penetrate clouds and windows year-round, causing ageing and cancer risk, while snow reflects up to 80% of UV, increasing exposure; it also prevents dryness and protects against pollution. Daily application is crucial for preventing photoageing, pigmentation and maintaining skin health, even when it feels cold or gloomy. Here is more information to justify the answer:
- There is still an increased risk of skin cancer. UV rays are harmful during this time of year because the ozone layer is at its thinnest. Also, snow and ice can reflect up to 80% of these rays, making it especially essential to keep the skin protected. Cloudy conditions amplify harmful UV radiation when the sun’s rays are reflected in the clouds.
- Many sunscreens contain moisturising ingredients, and broad-spectrum formulas protect against skin barrier disruption from cold air, dryness, and environmental pollutants.
- Irrespective of skin tone, it is essential to utilise a broad-spectrum sunscreen that safeguards against UVA and UVB rays. You must go for a minimum SPF 30 or a maximum SPF 50 for better protection.
- If you are an active person even in winter, it is great. If your daily routine involves a lot of activities, you may need sunscreen that is water and sweat-resistant. And if you are at higher altitudes, look for SPF 50 or higher for the best protection against reflected rays from the snow and ice.
- Regardless of your activity, and whether it’s sunny or cloudy, it is a good idea to apply sunscreen to your exposed skin on a daily or more frequent basis. Even small amounts of sun exposure can cause premature ageing and increase the risk of skin cancer.
For effective protection in winter, follow the tips we are going to cover ahead.
Tips for Winter Protection
A simple routine can help you a lot; small changes do matter, so follow these tips:
- Apply sunscreen to all exposed skin and exposed reflected UV rays, including lips and ears.
- Put on sunscreen for at least 20 minutes before heading out.
- Reapplication allows for continuous protection, so carry your sunscreen with you and reapply every two hours or more frequently if you are sweating.
Now, you are winter-ready with the best sunscreen protection. Search for the sunscreen with high SPF online or visit your nearby store.
Final Thoughts
SPF protection is a non-negotiable thing, even on cloudy days. Your skin needs continuous protection and better coverage. Look for SPF online to explore different SPF options and your best type. If you are sweating, then ensure you have your SPF in your bag, and you are reapplying it every two hours or more frequently. Remember, cloudy days do not ensure sun protection; it might be the reverse.
