Why You MUST Wear Sunscreen During Winter
Why You MUST Wear Sunscreen During Winter
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While winter isn't exactly a time for hitting up the beach in your bikini and tanning (unless you're lucky enough to live in year-round warm weather!), you're just as susceptible to overexposure of UV rays and sun damage this time of year. With winter sports season ahead of us, all you snowboarding and skiing enthusiasts have to ride with caution! Don't let the clouds fool you ladies, the sun's reflection off the snow is incredibly powerful, so if you're getting ready to hit the slopes or just go out for a "brisk" walk ( brrr!), make sure you take the proper precautions and apply sunscreen liberally! Here to break down the winter rules of wearing SPF, we have dermatologist, Dr. Bruce Katz of Juva Skin in NYC. Doctor's orders!
Why Winter?
" Wearing sunscreen daily is extremely important no matter the season. This especially includes the winter time in order to prevent burning and sensitivity caused by the sun reflecting and bouncing off the snow," says Dr. Katz. Believe it or not, the sun's reflection off the snow is strong EVEN on cloudy days.
What to Use?"Since skin is typically dry during colder months, I recommend using a cream-based SPF of 30 for added moisture and hydration," says Dr. Katz. "Also what I'm noticing is that women skip sunscreen because their makeup now includes SPF. Typically the amount of protection in cosmetics is overestimated and you have to remember that makeup comes off through the course of the day and doesn't apply evenly all over your face," he says. While SPF in your foundation is an added plus, it's important to use a daily moisturizer (or tinted moisturizer) that will protect you from both UVA and UVB rays!
Product Recommendation: How to Use It? L'Oréal Paris Youth Code Dark Spot SPF 30 Day CreamProduct Recommendation: The Body Shop Vitamin E Lip Care Stick SPF 15, Kiehl's Powerful Wrinkle Reducing Cream SPF 30, La Roche-Posay Rosaliac CC Cream"It's recommended that you apply SPF every 3-4 hours, more often if you're sweating or outdoors for an extended period of time. If you have two separate moisturizers (one with SPF and one without] the one with sun protection goes on first! And a great tip to remember is that sunscreen before cosmetics acts as a primer and allows your makeup to apply smoother," says Dr. Katz. To properly protect your skin, make sure you apply at least half a teaspoon of cream to your face and don't forget about your neck, ears, hands and lips!
What's your favorite SPF product to use in the winter? Let us know in the comments below!
Photo: Natalie Faye
Model: Summer Santivanez
