Winter Care Tips: Can We Apply Sunscreen During Cold Months? Know What’s The Truth and Myth

Winter Care: During the winter, our skin and hair get dry, therefore adequate maintenance, including the application of sunscreen, is essential—a habit that many people overlook during this season. A popular myth is that sunscreen is only necessary in the summer, but this is incorrect. Ultraviolet (UV) rays, particularly UVA and UVB rays, can pass through clouds, smog, and even glass windows, causing damage regardless of season. Sunscreen should be applied every day after moisturizing, ideally 15-20 minutes before leaving the house, to ensure adequate protection. 

Benefits of Applying Sunscreen in Winter

The effectiveness of sunscreen is determined not only by its SPF but also by its PA++ grade, which signals UVA protection. An SPF of 50 provides 98% protection, whereas SPF 15 provides 94%, indicating only a minor difference in protection levels. Sunscreen prevents sunlight-induced wrinkles and damage, making it an ideal anti-aging remedy. To get the best results, apply at least two finger units of sunscreen to your face and neck, then reapply every two hours if you’re out in the sun or in front of a screen. While we frequently like basking in the winter sun, it can aggravate skin conditions, making sunscreen even more important at this time of year.