Q: Please settle a debate between my husband and me. Do we need to wear sunscreen in the winter? We’re outside a lot. I say yes; he says no.
A: Hopefully this won’t cause marital discord, but you can tell your husband, “I told you so!” Yes, you absolutely should wear sunscreen when you’re outside in the winter. Just because the days are shorter and temperatures are cooler, the sun’s rays can still be harmful if you don’t protect your exposed skin.
In the cooler temperatures you’re more likely to wear long sleeves and long pants, which provide protection, but you still need to use sunscreen on areas that are not covered by clothing or hats.
There are two forms of sunscreen: chemical and physical. Chemical sunscreens protect you by absorbing the sun’s rays, while physical sunscreens work by sitting on your skin’s surface and deflecting rays. Chemical sunscreens are usually easier to rub and less likely to leave a visible residue, but physical sunscreens are a better option for those with sensitive skin.
As with summer sunscreen use, make sure you select a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30. Just because you may not be sweating as much as you do in warmer temperatures, you will need to reapply every couple of hours for maximum efficacy. Don’t forget to protect your lips as well with a lip balm that contains SPF 30.
Regardless of the season, keep an eye on the expiration of your sunscreen. If it’s past its expiration date, throw it away and buy a new bottle. The ingredients do lose effectiveness over time.
– Cindy McCord, M.D., Associates in Plastic Surgery; Chattanooga-Hamilton County Medical Society member