How to protect your skin from the sun in winter?

Most people associate the use of sun cream with summer and days at the beach or pool. However, dermatologists warn that ultraviolet (UV) radiation It does not disappear with the cold. In fact, the sun’s rays in winter can be just as damaging to your skin, especially on clear days.

“Accumulated sun exposure is one of the main causes of premature skin aging and increased risk of skin cancer. Even in winter, UVA rays pass through clouds and glass, causing damage that accumulates over time. Therefore, photoprotection should not be seen only as an aesthetic issue, but as an essential measure to take care of the health of the skin,” he points out. Cristina Villegashead of Dermatology service at Sanitas La Moraleja University Hospital.

Dermatologists recommend paying special attention to face, neck, décolleté and handssince they are the areas most exposed to solar radiation and those that first show signs of photoaging. Over time, these areas may present spots, fine wrinkles, loss of luminosity and changes in skin texture.

“In winter, the cold and wind dry the skin and weaken its natural barrier, making it more sensitive to solar radiation. Furthermore, in snow or mountain environments, light is reflected on surfaces and increases the intensity of UV rays, so it is essential to maintain sun protection also at this time of year,” he explains.
Cristina Villegas.

Given this situation, the experts of Sanitas offer a series of recommendations for Prevent problems derived from sun exposure:

• Choose products adapted to the type and needs of the skin: In the cold months, the skin tends to dry out due to the use of heating and sudden changes in temperature. Therefore, it is advisable to opt for sunscreens with moisturizing formulas that include ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, ceramides or aloe vera.
• Reapply the sunscreen several times a day: sweating, rubbing against clothing or the passage of hours reduce its effectiveness. If you spend time outdoors or do physical exercise, it is advisable to renew the application every two or three hours.
• Protect lips and eye area: These areas are especially sensitive and have thinner skin, so they suffer the effects of the sun and cold sooner. Using lip balms with a UV filter and approved sunglasses helps prevent cracks, irritation and premature wrinkles.
• Maintain a comprehensive care routine: Photoprotection is more effective when combined with other healthy habits: proper hydration, a balanced diet rich in antioxidants and a gentle facial cleansing that eliminates impurities without drying the skin.