- By Iram Hussain
- Tue, 28 Jan 2025 05:55 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
Sunscreen is not just a summer necessity, it is an essential part of your skincare routine throughout the year. Whether it's sunny or cloudy, snowy or rainy, protecting your skin from UV radiation is crucial for maintaining healthy, youthful skin and preventing long-term damage like premature ageing and skin cancer. As the temperatures drop and the sun's rays seem weaker, many people tend to let their guard down when it comes to sun protection. The common misconception is that sunscreen is only necessary during the warmer months when the sun is most intense. However, winter poses its own unique set of challenges for the skin, making sunscreen an essential part of your skincare routine throughout the year.
In a conversation with Jagran English, Dr. Aparna Santhanam, Skin Expert and Dermatologist at ITC Dermafique shares her insights on why sunscreen should never be neglected, regardless of the season.
Importance Of Sunscreen During Winter
UV Rays Are Present Year-Round
One of the key reasons to wear sunscreen in the winter is that harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays are always present even on overcast days. Dr. Santhanam explains, 'UV radiation consists of UVA and UVB rays. UVA rays penetrate the skin more deeply and are responsible for premature ageing and skin damage, while UVB rays cause sunburns. Both types of rays are present throughout the year, even on cloudy or cold days. In fact, UVA rays are equally strong in winter as they are in summer.'
Choose A Sunscreen With Full-Light Technology For Complete Protection
Dr. Aparna explains, 'Sunscreens with Full Light Technology are designed to protect the skin from the full spectrum of sunlight, including not just UVA and UVB rays, but also visible light and infrared radiation. This advanced technology helps prevent skin damage caused by all types of harmful rays that contribute to premature ageing, pigmentation, and skin cancer.'
Full Light Technology offers comprehensive protection, ensuring that your skin remains shielded from both short-term and long-term effects of sun exposure, while also helping to preserve its health, tone, and texture. By incorporating such a sunscreen into your routine, you provide your skin with a robust defence against the damaging effects of modern environmental stressors.
Winter Skin Is More Vulnerable
The winter air is drier and colder, often leading to skin dehydration, flakiness and irritation. In such conditions, the skin's natural barrier is weakened, making it more susceptible to damage from UV radiation. Dr. Santhanam points out, 'Cold weather makes the skin more fragile, so it’s essential to protect it with sunscreen. Even in dry, cloudy conditions, UV rays can penetrate the skin and cause long-term damage. Combining sunscreen with a good moisturizer creates a protective shield for the skin.'
By making sunscreen a part of your daily routine, you ensure that your skin remains safe, hydrated, and glowing all year long. So, as you layer up to fight the cold, don’t forget to layer on your sunscreen—it’s a small step that will pay off in the long run.
