• Source:JND
Add as a preferred

It's important to apply sunscreen in the winter just as much as in the summer. Sunlight's damaging UV rays can still enter the skin on chilly, cloudy days and cause long-term damage. Sunscreen serves as a barrier to block these UV rays, lowering the risk of skin cancer and avoiding sunspots and premature aging.

Also, the harsh winds and low temperatures of winter can exacerbate the vulnerability of the skin to injury and dryness. Sunscreen aids in moisture retention and skin health maintenance, in addition to providing UV protection. Also here, our expert explained the details of using or not using sunscreen in the winter season briefly.

Sunscreen serves as a barrier to block these UV rays, lowering the risk of skin cancer and avoiding sunspots and premature aging. (Image Credit: Canva)

Dr. Navnit Haror, who is a Gold Medalist in Chief Dermatologist, Cosmetic & Hair Transplant Surgeon, and also a founder of Dr. Haror’s Wellness, exclusively told Jagran English about should you use sunscreen in winters?

Also Read: World Stroke Day 2023: What Is Silent Brain Stroke And How It Affects The Brain | Know From Expert

The Winter Sun: A Deceptive Beauty

While the winter sun may not bear the scorching intensity of its summer counterpart, its gentle allure can be deceptive. Dr. Navnit Haror emphasised that even during the colder months, our skin is under constant assault from the sun's harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays. The science is clear: UV radiation, comprising UVA and UVB rays, continues to affect our skin in the winter.

UVA Rays: The Silent Culprit

While UVB rays, known for causing sunburn, may take a backseat in winter, UVA rays are ever-present, and they penetrate the skin more deeply. Dr. Navnit Haror explained how UVA rays are associated with premature aging, pigmentation, and an increased risk of skin cancer. This dispels the myth that sunscreen is only a summertime accessory; it is, in fact, a year-round necessity.

Protection Is Prevention

Dr. Navnit Haror stressed the importance of sunscreen as a vital element of our skincare routine, regardless of the season. Prevention, he emphasised, is the foundation of good skincare. By applying sunscreen every day, we create a protective shield that slows down the aging process and significantly reduces the risk of skin cancer. It is essential to having good skin.

Guidelines For Winter Sunscreen Use

Choosing the right sunscreen is paramount. Dr. Navnit Haror advised opting for a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 30 or higher. Broad-spectrum sunscreen ensures protection against both UVA and UVB rays. He also encouraged daily applications. Even on cloudy days or when spending most of the day indoors, sunscreen should be part of your daily regimen. It should be the final step in your skincare routine, layered on top of your moisturizer and beneath your makeup.

Sunscreen aids in moisture retention and skin health maintenance, in addition to providing UV protection. (Image Credit: Canva)

Dr. Navnit Haror extended the advice to include your hands and lips, often neglected areas that are equally vulnerable to sun damage. Using a lip balm with SPF and a hand cream with sun protection is essential. In outdoor settings, especially where snow is present, Dr. Navnit Haror recommends extra caution. Snow can reflect the sun's rays, amplifying exposure. If you're engaging in winter sports or outdoor activities, sunscreen is a must.

Also Read: 5 Health Benefits Of Adding Lemon Tea Into Your Morning Routine

The Holistic Approach

While sunscreen is a must for winter skincare, Dr. Haror emphasised that it's not a standalone solution. Hydration is equally crucial, especially in the dry, cold winter air. Using a rich moisturiser helps retain skin moisture. A balanced diet, adequate hydration, and personalized recommendations from a dermatologist are crucial elements of a comprehensive approach to skincare.

At last, Dr. Haror said, "In the world of dermatology, prevention is paramount. Sunscreen isn't a seasonal accessory; it's a timeless necessity. This winter, let your skin revel in the embrace of care and protection, and remember, the sun never takes a break, so neither should you when it comes to sunscreen."