Sunscreens are just for the summer, right?

WRONG. Let us tell you why…

We all know the importance of wearing sunscreen during the summer, when we’re outside at the park, the pool, or the beach. What about during the winter, when it’s cold or even snowing outside? (It doesn’t happen often here in Texas, but what about that holiday ski trip to Colorado?)

Don’t let the thermometer fool you. The sun’s rays are just as powerful in the cooler, winter months as they are in the peak of the summer’s heat. Windows allow sunlight to penetrate, and even incidental sun exposure, like walking from your house to your car, will expose you to ultraviolet rays from the sun and can cause premature aging. Did you know… up to 80% of the sun’s UV (ultraviolet) rays can pass through the clouds. So even on cloudy days, you are not covered, (pun intended). More than 90% of all skin cancers are associated with sun exposure. UVA rays, known as ‘aging rays,’ penetrate deeply into the skin and account for 95% of our sun exposure. UVB rays are shorter ‘burning rays’ and are known to cause sunburns. Repeated exposure to UVA and UVB rays causes damage to skin cells, which result in the production of wrinkles, sun damage and skin cancer. The risk for skin cancer doubles in people who have had five or more sunburns. Skin Cancer Foundation (Nov. 2010)

Remember that trip to Colorado?

Just like the cool reflection of the water at the beach, snow reflects up to 80% of the UV light from the sun, intensifying the damaging rays and putting you and your family at an increased risk of sun damage, and ultimately skin cancer. Whether you like to snowboard or ski, or even a silly snowball fight with the kids, we love the snow too, but don’t forget your SPF!

"It's easy to associate winter with frostbite and windburn, but most people are unaware that UV rays can be every bit as damaging on the slopes as on the beach," said Perry Robins, MD, President, The Skin Cancer Foundation. "With the winter sports season ahead of us, it's more important than ever to take proper precautions on the slopes."

You are even more susceptible to UV radiation in higher altitudes. UV radiation exposure increases 4 to 5 percent with every 1,000 feet above sea level. At an altitude of 9,000 to 10,000 feet, UV radiation may be 35 to 45 percent more intense than at sea level. Ouch!!

So we love sunscreens year round! Daily application of a broad-spectrum sunscreen helps prevent sunburn and decreases the risk of skin cancer and early skin aging caused by the sun. Sunscreens aren’t boring anymore. No more white streaks, or unpleasant odor. Our favorites also include additional antiaging benefits, like antioxidants and peptides so they are ideal to add to your current skincare regimen. Our motto: the best sunscreen is the one you will actually wear. Try one of these below: