Winter’s sun might seem less harsh and intense, but don’t be fooled. Although certain UV Rays called UVB Rays tend to dissipate during the winter season, other UV Rays like UVA Rays that can really damage your skin stay constant throughout the year. You still need to keep up your skin-care regimen in the winter—with some slight modifications of course. Here are 5 ways to protect your skin from the winter sun.
- The Right Stuff
Getting the right kind of sunblock is absolutely essential to protecting your skin. Don’t settle for anything less than a broad spectrum sunblock that blocks both UVA Rays and UVB Rays. Make sure it’s nice and fresh, too. Most sunscreens have an expiration date that you need to follow strictly—sunblocks lose potency over time. SPF, also known as sun protection factor, measures a sunblock’s ability to block UV Rays. You should only try sunblocks with an SPF of at least 40.
- Beware and Be Aware
UV Rays are resilient and powerful; they can pass through the clouds on an overcast day and they can pass through glass and clothes, making even a long car ride an opportunity for excessive sun exposure. You can be proactive by buying UV-blocking clothes or by putting sun screen everywhere—not just in exposed areas.
- Winter Sports
The combination of high elevation and snow can make participating in winter sports one of the most vulnerable times for sun exposure. For one thing, the higher you are in elevation, the more intense the sun. The other thing is that snow actually reflects almost all the sunlight that hits it, so you’re actually being exposed to twice the amount of sunlight than usual. You’ll probably be bundled up, but at the very least, protect your exposed areas. That means your face, under your chin, behind the ears, the back of your neck, and even your scalp if you have short hair.
- Snow
In the winter, you’ll experience either brisk winds, snow, or both. Either of these can quickly wear down any sunscreen that you apply, so it’s important that you constantly reapply sun screen whenever you’re outside.
- Love those Lips
Don’t neglect those lips! Winter dryness can lead your lips to chapping, which in turn, make them more vulnerable to UV Rays. Avoid shiny lip glosses, and go for lip balms that contain SPF.
Being proactive about protecting yourself is the first step to flawless skin. Of course, it’s not impossible to turn back time on your skin, so contact Key Laser for a consultation on some of the best skin rejuvenation procedures available.