It’s a common misconception that sunscreen is only necessary during the warmer summer months when the sun is visible. However, SPF (Sun Protection Factor) is just as important throughout autumn and winter. The key to maintaining youthful skin and protecting yourself from harmful sun damage is using SPF every single day. That even includes the colder months. 

UV rays are present all day, regardless of the time of year, weather or season. Believe it or not, over 90% of the sun’s rays can get through clouds. So those chilly, overcast winter days when you assume you don’t need sun protection, you absolutely do. 

Why Does SPF Matter in the Winter? 

When you think of sun damage, summer sun usually comes to mind. However, UV rays don’t take a break just because the temperature drops. Even in the winter, harmful UV rays continue to affect your skin and increase the rate at which you develop signs of ageing. This causes damage which adds up over time and can even lead to forms of skin cancer. 

In fact, winter can sometimes make sun exposure even worse. For example, if there is snow on the ground, UV rays can reflect off it which increases your exposure. Whether you are skiing or simply going for a winter walk, your skin is still at risk of UV damage. 

What do SPF Ratings Mean? 

When you are shopping for sunscreen, you’ve likely seen different SPF ratings, but what do they actually mean? SPF ratings measure how well a sunscreen can protect your skin from UVB rays. These are the rays which cause sunburn. 

SPF 15: Blocks about 93% of UVB rays. 

SPF 30: Blocks roughly 97%.

SPF 50: blocks around 98%.

While the difference between SPF 30 and SPF 50 might seem small, it can make a big difference on the health of your skin. Keep in mind that SPF only measures protection against UVB rays. For full protection, including from UVA rays which penetrate deeper into the skin, you need a broad-spectrum sunscreen.

Signs of Sun Damage

Repeated exposure to UV rays over time can cause your skin to age much faster than it naturally would. Some of the most common signs of premature ageing from sun exposure include: 

• Fine lines

• Wrinkles 

• Uneven texture

• Pigmentation

These effects don’t happen overnight, but they build up slowly over time. This is why protecting your skin from UV rays every day of the year, no matter the weather, is important.

The Long-Term Impact of Daily Sun Exposure

The effects of harmful UV rays add up over time. This can lead to signs of ageing appearing much earlier than expected. Studies have shown that using SPF daily can slow the skin’s ageing process by up to 24%. If you want to keep your skin looking younger for longer, applying sunscreen every day is one of the best things you can do. Consistent, long-term exposure to UV rays can also lead to increased risk of developing forms of skin cancer.

Choosing the Right SPF for Winter

Everyday moisturisers and BB creams might not contain a high enough SPF or a broad-spectrum coverage to fully protect you. We recommend using a broad-spectrum SPF every single day alongside your other skincare products. It is easy to make this part of your routine as well. Just apply it after you moisturise in the morning, before you apply make up and it will soon become second nature.

Don’t Forget SPF This Winter

Don’t let the colder weather fool you into thinking you don’t need sunscreen. UV rays are a year-round concern, your skin will thank you for keeping it protected. By applying SPF every day, you will help save your skin from premature ageing, damage and potentially more severe skin conditions. 

Make SPF part of your daily routine, even in winter. You can enjoy healthier and younger-looking skin for years to come.