Why UV Protection Matters Through the Winter

Winter in Maryland can be deceiving. You might think the cold weather means you can skip the sunscreen, but that’s far from the truth. Protecting your skin from the sun is a year-round commitment, even when temperatures drop. 

Here, our experienced Easton Dermatology Associates team explains the science behind sun exposure, its effects on your skin, and how to keep your skin healthy through the winter months.

What the sun does to your skin

The sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays are invisible to the naked eye, but that doesn’t mean they’re harmless. They penetrate your skin and cause immediate and long-term damage. 

UVA rays damage your DNA, contributing to premature aging and some skin cancers. UVB rays cause sunburns. 

Both types pose a risk and are present every time the sun is out, even in winter.

UVA rays can penetrate clouds and glass, so you’re still exposed even on overcast days or indoors by windows. The damage from these rays accumulates over time, leading to various skin issues, some of which can be severe, like skin cancer. 

Why you need winter skin protection

Don’t believe the myth that UV rays are weaker in winter. The sun’s rays are just as potent in the winter as in summer. The sun’s position in the sky might change, but your exposure remains constant, especially in Maryland, where we enjoy outdoor activities like skiing, hiking, or walking around town.

Snow and ice can reflect up to 80% of UV rays, doubling your exposure. Even though you might not feel the burn on a chilly day, the harmful effects are still at work, silently affecting your skin. 

UV rays can also penetrate cloud cover, meaning they’re present even on the most overcast days. To protect your skin, use broad-spectrum sunscreen daily.

Wearing protective clothing, hats, and scarves to cover exposed skin also helps. 

Don’t forget your lips and eyes. Wear lip balm with SPF and sunglasses with UV protection to prevent damage to your mouth, eyes, and sensitive skin around them. 

Consequences of winter sun exposure

If you’re still unconvinced about the dangers of winter sun exposure, consider these consequences.

Wrinkles 

Sun exposure accelerates wrinkles. When UV rays penetrate your skin, they break down collagen and elastin fibers, the proteins that keep your skin firm and smooth. 

Though some people view wrinkles as a badge of honor, indicating a life well-lived, most want youthful-looking skin for as long as possible. Consistent sun protection can slow the appearance of wrinkles by preserving your skin’s structural integrity. Even in winter, sunscreen helps maintain collagen and keeps your skin wrinkle-free.

We can also recommend high-quality moisturizers with antioxidants and retinoids to support skin elasticity and repair damage. 

Dark spots 

Dark spots, or hyperpigmentation, occur when your skin produces too much melanin in response to UV exposure. These spots can appear on any skin type, and although they might be more noticeable during the summer, they can develop year-round. Without sun protection, these spots can darken and multiply, leaving your skin with an uneven tone.

Dryness 

Cold air and UV exposure can lead to dry, flaky skin. Winter air lacks humidity, which means it draws moisture from your skin. When you add UV exposure to the mix, it weakens your skin’s natural barrier.

A rich, moisturizing cream can seal in moisture. Look for products containing hyaluronic acid or ceramides — they retain moisture and strengthen your skin. Applying these after using sunscreen can provide a protective layer that keeps your skin hydrated throughout the day.

Drinking plenty of water hydrates your skin from the inside out. Coupled with a healthy diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids, you can maintain your skin's moisture balance even during harsh winter months. 

Sunburn

Though it may be surprising, it’s possible to get a sunburn in winter. With UV rays reflecting off snow, your skin can burn just as easily as if you were at the beach. A sunburn is more than just a temporary discomfort; frequent burns increase your risk of developing skin cancer and contribute to aging.

Skin cancer

Skin cancer is the biggest associated with UV exposure. It’s the most common form of cancer in the United States, with cases increasing each year.

Regular sunscreen use can significantly reduce your risk. Remember to cover areas often overlooked, such as your ears, neck, and hands. 

Regular skin cancer screenings at Easton Dermatology Associates allow us to identify and monitor new moles or changes in existing ones and keep our eye on suspicious skin patches. 

To schedule a skin check or get more tips on winter skin protection, call Easton Dermatology Associates in Easton, Salisbury, or Stevensville, Maryland, or request an appointment using our online form.