Do I Really Need Sun Protection in the Fall and Winter?

Absolutely even though it’s fall and winter, you must have sun protection on. Yes, the intensity of UVB rays—the principal reason for sunburn—lessens in the winter as the days shorten and the angle of the sun becomes less direct, However, Summer rays tend to constantly remain the same throughout all seasons. Unlike UVB rays, UVA rays penetrate deeply into the skin and contribute to long-term damage such as premature aging, hyperpigmentation and skin elasticity loss. They can also pass through any type of protection ie; clouds, windows, or even vehicles, meaning overcast days or sitting beside windows is dangerous too.

Why Year Round Sun Protection is Important

Overexposure to UVA rays leads to skin damage and triggers the appearance of skin cancers like basal cell carcinoma (BCC), squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) and melanoma. Looking at the severe implications, protecting your skin every single day of the year is crucial to your health.

What Can Be Done to Protect The Skin During the Fall or Winter Months

In order to shield skin during the fall and winter months, here is what can be done:

  • Wear clothes with a UPF rating above 50 – These pieces of clothing provide even a long lasting protection from both UVA and UVB rays. UPF clothing is vastly superior to sunscreen in that it does not get washed off nor does its strength wear off in a given day. As for the Cold Weather Sun Protection Clothes by Coolibar, they are specially manufactured for all seasons allowing users to feel comfortable and lightweight while still being protected against harmful sun rays.
  • Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen that has SPF of at least 60 – Opt for combinations like Helioplex 60 broad spectrum sunscreen. It provides excellent protection against UVA and is ideal for the exposed areas of our body including the face, neck, and hands.

The Benefit of Consistent Sun Protection

By considering the mentioned options, the chances of facing skin conditions that result from exposure to sunlight are reduced. There is a misplaced notion that certain seasons require the use of sunscreen and certain don’t, however the fact is regardless of what season it is, wearing sunscreen should always be the absolute priority, Coolibar offers UPF 50+ clothing which allows users to be safe while being fashionable.