Whether your skin is feeling the sizzling sun in summer or the cool, brisk air of winter, sunscreen is a necessity. Many people assume that SPF protection isn’t essential during the colder months because the heat and rays of the sun are not as intense, temperatures are cooler, and days are shorter.
The truth is, no matter what time of the year it is, ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun can still damage our skin, leading to long-term consequences and irreparable harm.
Whether inside or outside, UV rays still pose a risk
There are two types of UV rays: UVA and UVB. UVB rays are strongest on sunny summer days and primarily affect the skin’s surface, leading to sunburn and increasing the risk of skin cancer. UVA rays are present throughout the year and can penetrate clouds, glass and deeper layers of the skin. UVA rays can cause harm in the deeper layers of the skin, resulting in premature ageing and heightening the risk of skin cancer. In short, your skin needs protection every day, no matter the season.
The consequences of skipping SPF in winter
Neglecting your SPF in winter can have dire effects. It not only changes the quality of your skin, but the damage builds up over time and eventually becomes visible. Everyday exposure to UV rays can accelerate the deterioration of collagen and elasticity, which can lead to fine lines, wrinkles and a loss of firmness. Because the sun stimulates melanin production, hyperpigmentation, dark spots, uneven marks and visible discolouration can worsen and become harder to treat.
As mentioned before, the harshest outcome of disregarding sunscreen protection is skin cancer. UV rays from the sun create unstable molecules called free radicals that can damage your skin cells. Over time, this damage can affect your DNA. If it happens repeatedly, it can lead to skin cancer. In fact, about 90% of non-melanoma skin cancers are linked to sun exposure.
Picking the right SPF matters
It is crucial to select the right sunscreen that provides reliable, broad-spectrum protection. According to dermatologists, a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher should do the job correctly as it protects against both UVA and UVB light rays. Eucerin’s Sun Fluid Even Pigment Perfector SPF 50+ absorbs easily without leaving a white cast. It’s a multi-purpose sunscreen that provides effective protection while reducing the appearance of dark marks and preventing new dark marks from occurring.
Eucerin’s Advanced Spectral Technology, the Sun Fluid Pigment Perfector offers high factor
protection against UVA and UVB rays and HEVIS light (high energy visible light, the harmful blue light emitted by laptop and phone screens that also affects the health of our skin). Thanks to active ingredients like Thiamidol, which has been shown to help reduce and fade sun-related dark spots, South Africans can remain protected against winter’s often dry and harsh conditions. For maximum protection, reapply sunscreen often, especially when outdoors.
At the end of the day, it’s all about taking care of your skin 365 days a year. Whether you’re ready for a beach day in summer or just taking a simple walk in winter, your skin is always safe, no matter what time of day or season it is.