Why You Shouldn't Ignore Sun Protection in the Winter

The sun is a curious celestial body. It poses threats to the human body from overexposure, but we literally couldn’t live without it. Among other health benefits, the sun triggers vitamin D production in the body, supporting immune function and bone health.

But there are health hazards too. Most people understand the need for protection from the sun's ultraviolet (UV) rays in the late spring and summer months. Fewer people realize the importance of protection in the colder fall and winter months.

To encourage you to protect your skin from harmful UV light throughout the year, Dr. Javier Zelaya and the dedicated staff here at Skinworks Dermatology in New York City discuss why you shouldn’t let your guard down in winter.

Effects of sun damage on your skin

Overexposure to direct sunlight poses several health threats over time. The effect, known as photoaging, sun damage, solar damage, or dermatoheliosis, results from excessive exposure to specific forms of ultraviolet light, such as UVA and UVB.

Sun damage can also occur as a result of tanning beds or sun lamps.

Harmful rays can affect all types of skin. However, individuals with light skin, a personal or family history of skin cancer, multiple moles, freckles, and those who spend a significant amount of time outdoors in direct sunlight are at a higher risk. 

Over time, photoaging can lead to issues such as skin thinning, loss of elasticity, lesions, spots, wrinkles, spider veins, uneven skin tone, and skin cancer.

Dangers of sun exposure in the winter months

In winter, it’s understandable that your focus might be on staying warm rather than on sunscreen and protecting yourself from the sun. And while the risk of skin problems in fall and winter is lower, UVA and UVB rays still pose a health hazard.

UVA in particular penetrates through window glass, so the risk of sun damage is present even if you’re spending more time indoors. Another factor is reflective solar rays from your phone, sunglasses, or other mirrored surfaces that can harm your skin.

During the winter months, the skin is also drier and at greater risk of sun damage.

Ways to protect skin this time of year

Many of the same techniques recommended to protect skin in the spring and summer also apply to the winter months, including sunscreen, clothing, headwear, and sunglasses. The goal is to prevent UV rays from penetrating the skin and causing harm.

Staying out of the sun during peak hours reduces your risk of high exposure to UV rays. If skiing is in your winter plans, there’s a significant risk to your eyes, so use specialized protective eyewear.

For more information about preventing or treating sun damage anytime of year, call the Skinworks Dermatology office in Maspeth, Chelsea, or Park Slope, or request your appointment online today.