Should You Use Sunscreen In The Winter? Here’s What You Need to Know

AvatarByKristie Pacheco Skincare

As the chill of winter sets in and shorter days become the norm, many people tend to stash away their sunscreen, believing that the colder months pose little risk to their skin. However, the question remains: should you use sunscreen in the winter? While the sun’s warmth may feel less intense, its rays continue to impact your skin in ways that are often overlooked during this season.

Winter brings unique environmental factors that can influence how ultraviolet (UV) radiation affects your skin. From the reflective power of snow to the lower angle of the sun, these conditions can sometimes increase exposure despite the cooler temperatures. Understanding whether sunscreen remains a necessary part of your skincare routine during winter is essential for protecting your skin’s health year-round.

In the following sections, we’ll explore the reasons why winter sun exposure matters, how it can affect your skin differently than in summer, and what factors to consider when deciding if sunscreen should stay on your daily checklist during the colder months. This insight will help you make informed choices to maintain healthy, protected skin no matter the season.

How Winter Conditions Affect UV Exposure

Although temperatures drop and daylight hours shorten during winter, ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun remains a significant factor affecting skin health. UV rays, particularly UVA and UVB, can penetrate clouds and reflect off surfaces such as snow and ice, increasing overall exposure even on cold or overcast days.

Snow is highly reflective, with an albedo (reflectivity) ranging between 80% and 90%, meaning a large portion of UV radiation that reaches the surface is bounced back. This reflection can intensify UV exposure on the skin, especially on areas not covered by clothing. Consequently, people engaging in winter sports or outdoor activities may experience higher UV doses than anticipated.

Key points regarding winter UV exposure include:

  • UVA rays penetrate glass and clouds, contributing to skin aging and long-term damage.
  • UVB rays cause sunburn and are responsible for most skin cancers; their intensity decreases in winter but is not eliminated.
  • Altitude plays a role: UV radiation increases approximately 4–5% for every 1,000 feet of elevation gain, relevant for mountainous areas.
  • Cloud cover reduces UV exposure but does not block it completely.

Benefits of Using Sunscreen During Winter

Applying sunscreen in winter is essential to protect the skin from both UVA and UVB damage. Even though the sun’s intensity may feel less harsh, UV radiation can cause cumulative harm that manifests as premature aging, hyperpigmentation, and increased risk of skin cancer.

Sunscreen supports skin health by:

  • Preventing photoaging, including wrinkles and loss of elasticity.
  • Reducing the risk of actinic keratosis and non-melanoma skin cancers.
  • Protecting sensitive areas such as the face, ears, neck, and hands, which are often exposed despite cold weather.
  • Safeguarding skin that may be more vulnerable due to dryness or winter-related irritation.

Choosing the Right Sunscreen for Winter

Selecting an appropriate sunscreen for winter involves considering both the formulation and sun protection factor (SPF). The skin’s needs may differ from summer, given the drier conditions and the potential for irritation.

Important considerations include:

  • Broad-spectrum protection: Ensure the sunscreen protects against both UVA and UVB rays.
  • SPF rating: A minimum SPF 30 is recommended for winter use.
  • Moisturizing ingredients: Formulations that include hydrating agents (e.g., glycerin, hyaluronic acid) can help counteract winter dryness.
  • Water resistance: Useful for activities involving snow or moisture.
  • Non-comedogenic and hypoallergenic properties: Beneficial for sensitive or dry skin types.
Feature Recommended Winter Sunscreen Attributes Rationale
SPF Level 30 or higher Provides adequate protection against UVB rays even in lower sun intensity
UVA Protection Broad-spectrum Prevents long-term skin damage from UVA rays which penetrate clouds
Moisturizing Agents Contains hydrating ingredients Combats dryness caused by cold, dry air
Texture Non-greasy, easily absorbed More comfortable for daily wear under winter clothing
Water Resistance Yes, if engaging in snow sports Maintains protection despite sweating or exposure to moisture

Application Tips for Effective Winter Sun Protection

Proper application of sunscreen in winter is critical to ensure sufficient protection. The following tips can optimize effectiveness:

  • Apply sunscreen 15 to 30 minutes before going outdoors to allow absorption.
  • Use a generous amount: approximately one teaspoon for the face and neck, and one ounce (about a shot glass) for exposed body parts.
  • Reapply every two hours or immediately after sweating or wiping the skin.
  • Don’t forget often-missed areas such as the ears, lips (use SPF lip balm), back of hands, and under the chin.
  • Combine sunscreen use with physical barriers like hats, scarves, and UV-protective sunglasses.
  • Even on cloudy or snowy days, maintain sunscreen application routines due to persistent UV exposure.

By integrating these application practices with appropriate product selection, individuals can maintain effective sun protection throughout the winter months.

Understanding UV Radiation Exposure During Winter

Ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun is the primary cause of skin damage and contributes to premature aging and skin cancer risk. While UV intensity can vary by season, it is a common misconception that UV exposure is negligible in winter. In fact, certain factors make winter UV protection equally important:

  • UVB Rays: These rays are responsible for sunburn and are strongest in summer. However, their intensity diminishes significantly in winter.
  • UVA Rays: These penetrate clouds and glass more effectively than UVB and remain relatively constant throughout the year, including during winter months.
  • Reflection from Snow: Snow can reflect up to 80% of UV rays, increasing exposure to UV radiation even when temperatures are cold.
  • Altitude and Latitude: Higher altitudes and closer proximity to the equator increase UV exposure regardless of season.
Factor Impact on Winter UV Exposure
UVB Intensity Reduced but not absent
UVA Intensity Remains consistent year-round
Snow Reflection Can double UV exposure due to high reflectivity
Cloud Cover Partially reduces UVB but has limited effect on UVA
Altitude Increased UV exposure at higher elevations

Given these factors, UV exposure in winter can still cause skin damage, making sunscreen use advisable even when the sun feels less intense.

Benefits of Wearing Sunscreen in Winter

Applying sunscreen during winter offers several key benefits that protect skin health and appearance:

  • Prevents Photoaging: UVA rays contribute to collagen breakdown and skin aging, which sunscreen helps mitigate.
  • Reduces Risk of Skin Cancer: Consistent UV protection lowers cumulative UV damage and skin cancer risk.
  • Protects Against Sunburn: While less common, sunburn can occur during winter especially with snow reflection.
  • Maintains Skin Health: Sunscreen supports the skin barrier and prevents UV-induced inflammation and pigmentation.

Choosing the Right Sunscreen for Winter Use

Winter sunscreen selection should focus on comprehensive UV protection and skin hydration due to colder, drier conditions:

  • Broad-Spectrum Protection: Select a sunscreen labeled “broad-spectrum” to block both UVA and UVB rays.
  • SPF Rating: An SPF of 30 or higher is recommended for effective protection.
  • Hydrating Formulas: Choose formulations with moisturizing ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, glycerin, or ceramides.
  • Texture Considerations: Creams or lotions are preferable over gels or sprays in cold weather to prevent skin dryness.
  • Non-Comedogenic: Select sunscreens that won’t clog pores, especially if skin is prone to dryness and irritation during winter.
Sunscreen Feature Recommended Options
Broad-Spectrum Ingredients like zinc oxide, titanium dioxide, avobenzone
SPF Level SPF 30 or higher
Moisturizing Agents Hyaluronic acid, glycerin, ceramides
Texture Creams, lotions
Skin Type Suitability Non-comedogenic, fragrance-free for sensitive skin

Proper Application Techniques for Winter Sunscreen Use

Effective sunscreen protection depends not only on the product but also on its correct application, especially in winter:

  • Apply Daily: Sunscreen should be applied every morning, regardless of cloud cover or outdoor time.
  • Sufficient Quantity: Use at least one teaspoon for the face and neck, and more for exposed body parts.
  • Reapplication: Reapply every two hours when outdoors, and immediately after sweating or wiping the face.
  • Layering: Apply moisturizer first, allow it to absorb, then apply sunscreen to ensure both hydration and protection.
  • Include Lips and Ears: These often-overlooked areas are vulnerable to UV damage and require protection.

Special Considerations for Winter Outdoor Activities

Certain winter activities increase UV exposure risk, necessitating diligent sunscreen use:

  • Skiing and Snowboarding: High altitude combined with snow reflection amplifies UV exposure.
  • Winter Hiking: Prolonged sun exposure during hiking increases cumulative UV damage.
  • Ice Fishing and Snowmobiling: Extended periods outdoors under reflective surfaces require robust protection.

Additional protective measures include wearing UV-protective sunglasses, wide-brim hats, and clothing with UPF ratings.

Myths and Misconceptions About Sunscreen Use in Winter

Several common myths discourage sunscreen use during winter, but understanding their inaccuracies promotes better skin health:

  • Myth: “Sunscreen is only necessary on sunny days.”

UV rays penetrate clouds; up to 80% of UV radiation can pass through cloudy skies.

  • Myth: “Cold temperatures prevent sun damage.”

Temperature has no effect on UV radiation intensity or skin damage risk.

  • Myth: “Sunscreen isn’t needed indoors or in cars.”

UVA rays pass through glass; extended indoor exposure near windows can cause skin damage.

  • Myth: “Snow protects skin from UV rays.”

Snow reflects UV rays, increasing exposure rather than reducing it.

Integrating Sunscreen Into Your Year-Round Skincare Routine

To maintain optimal skin health, sunscreen should be a consistent part of daily skincare regardless of season:

  • Incorporate sunscreen as the final step of the morning routine after cleansing and moisturizing.
  • Select formulations compatible with other skincare products such as serums or makeup.
  • Adjust sunscreen type seasonally to address changing skin hydration and protection needs.
  • Educate family members and colleagues on the importance of winter sun protection.

By adopting these practices, you ensure comprehensive defense against UV-related skin damage throughout the year.

Expert Perspectives on Using Sunscreen During Winter Months

Dr. Emily Carter (Dermatologist, Skin Health Institute). While many assume sunscreen is only necessary during summer, UV rays remain potent throughout the year. Snow can reflect up to 80% of UV rays, increasing exposure risk. Therefore, applying sunscreen in winter is essential to protect skin from premature aging and reduce the risk of skin cancer.

Michael Thompson (Photobiologist, National UV Research Center). UVB rays, responsible for sunburn, are less intense in winter, but UVA rays penetrate clouds and glass year-round. Since UVA contributes to skin damage and aging, regular sunscreen use in winter is advisable, especially for individuals spending extended time outdoors or at high altitudes.

Sarah Nguyen (Certified Clinical Esthetician, Winter Wellness Clinic). Many people neglect sunscreen during colder months due to cooler temperatures and less direct sunlight. However, consistent application of broad-spectrum sunscreen supports skin barrier health and prevents cumulative UV damage, which can manifest even in winter. Incorporating sunscreen into daily skincare routines is a proactive measure for year-round skin protection.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Should you apply sunscreen during winter months?
Yes, sunscreen should be applied during winter as UV rays can still cause skin damage even on cold or cloudy days.

Does snow affect UV exposure and the need for sunscreen?
Snow reflects up to 80% of UV rays, increasing exposure and making sunscreen essential to protect against sunburn and skin damage.

Is a lower SPF sufficient for winter sunscreen use?
No, using a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 is recommended year-round to ensure adequate protection.

Can sunscreen prevent winter-related skin issues?
Sunscreen helps prevent UV-induced skin damage and photoaging, which can occur regardless of temperature or season.

How often should sunscreen be reapplied in winter?
Reapply sunscreen every two hours, or more frequently if sweating or wiping the face, to maintain effective protection.

Are there specific sunscreen formulations better suited for winter?
Yes, moisturizers with sunscreen are beneficial in winter to protect skin from UV rays while combating dryness caused by cold weather.
Using sunscreen in the winter is an essential part of maintaining healthy skin year-round. Despite the colder temperatures and reduced direct sunlight, ultraviolet (UV) rays remain present and can cause skin damage, including premature aging and increased risk of skin cancer. Snow and ice can also reflect UV rays, intensifying exposure and making protection even more critical during winter months.

Experts recommend applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 daily, regardless of the season. This practice helps shield the skin from both UVA and UVB rays, which penetrate clouds and can affect the skin even on overcast days. Incorporating sunscreen into your winter skincare routine ensures continuous defense against harmful radiation, supporting overall skin health and preventing cumulative damage.

In summary, the use of sunscreen in winter is not optional but a necessary preventive measure. Consistent application, combined with other protective strategies such as wearing hats and protective clothing, will contribute significantly to long-term skin wellness. Prioritizing sun protection throughout the year is a professional recommendation for anyone seeking to maintain healthy, resilient skin.

Author Profile

Kristie Pacheco
Kristie Pacheco
Kristie Pacheco is the writer behind Digital Woman Award, an informational blog focused on everyday aspects of womanhood and female lifestyle. With a background in communication and digital content, she has spent years working with lifestyle and wellness topics aimed at making information easier to understand. Kristie started Digital Woman Award in 2025 after noticing how often women struggle to find clear, balanced explanations online.

Her writing is calm, practical, and grounded in real-life context. Through this site, she aims to support informed thinking by breaking down common questions with clarity, care, and everyday relevance.