Do you really need sunscreen all year round?
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We may not have a little winter left, but this article also applies to spring and autumn. Any season where the sun is not too bright and people let their guard down. The importance of sunscreen is hammered home in summer, yet many people overlook its significance during other months. We underline why wearing sunscreen should remain a habit in one’s skincare regimen, regardless of the season.
Understanding UV Exposure in Winter
Contrary to popular belief, UV rays do not take a winter break. The Earth’s surface receives UV radiation year-round, with UVA rays penetrating through clouds and reflecting off snow, potentially increasing exposure. UV exposure can increase by up to 5% at higher altitudes for every 1,000 meters above sea level, making sunscreen essential for winter sports enthusiasts.
Health Implications
Neglecting sunscreen in winter can lead to photoaging, characterised by wrinkles and loss of skin elasticity, and an increased risk of skin cancer. Conditions like photosensitivity and pigmentation disorders can also worsen without proper protection.
Choosing the Right Sunscreen
For winter use, select a broad-spectrum sunscreen offering protection against both UVA and UVB rays, with a minimum Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of 30. Water- and sweat-resistant formulas are advisable for those engaging in winter sports or spending extended periods outdoors. Individuals at higher altitudes or with sensitive skin may benefit from products with higher SPF values.
Application Techniques
Effective sunscreen application involves covering all exposed skin, including the face, neck, and hands, at least 30 minutes before outdoor exposure. Reapplication is necessary every two hours or more frequently if sweating or coming into contact with water.
Myth Busting
A common myth is that darker skin tones do not require sunscreen. However, UV radiation affects all skin types, and everyone can benefit from the protective measures of sunscreen. Another misconception is that the winter sun is too weak to cause damage, yet UVA rays, responsible for ageing and contributing to skin cancer, remain constant throughout the year.
Medik8 SPF containing formulas
We stock the fantastic Medik8 range of products. The products listed below contains a sunscreen of at least SPF 30, along with other anti-ageing ingredients.
1. Advanced Day Ultimate Protect
Description: This daily moisturiser doubles as an SPF 50+ PA++++ sunscreen, offering comprehensive protection against UVA and UVB rays, air pollution, blue light, infrared damage, and glycation. It’s formulated with photolyase, a DNA repair enzyme that supports the skin’s natural repair mechanisms following UV exposure. Ideal for preventing wrinkles, dark spots, and uneven skin texture.
Key Benefits: Provides powerful SPF 50+ PA++++ protection, supports skin’s natural repair mechanisms, and delivers a non-greasy, invisible finish suitable for all skin tones.
Usage: Perfect for daily use, under makeup, to protect and hydrate the skin.
2. Daily Radiance Vitamin C
Description: A lightweight day cream with SPF 30 that energises and protects the skin. It combines antioxidant-rich vitamin C with broad-spectrum sunscreen, preventing premature signs of ageing while offering a glowy base for makeup.
Key Benefits: Offers antioxidant protection and SPF 30 sun protection, feels more like a moisturiser than a sunscreen, and boosts radiance.
Usage: Ideal for daily application to maintain protection against the sun and environmental damage.
3. Advanced Day Total Protect
Description: This moisturiser provides SPF 30 5* UVA protection and shields the skin from environmental aggressors like blue light, air pollution, infrared, and glycation. It helps prevent the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, dark spots, and dullness.
Key Benefits: Delivers SPF 30 protection with a non-greasy, invisible finish, making it an excellent base for makeup.
Usage: Suitable for daily use to hydrate, smooth, and protect the skin.
4. Advanced Day Eye Protect
Description: Specifically designed for the delicate eye area, this product offers SPF 30 5* UVA protection, nourishing the skin while preventing and smoothing wrinkles. It also targets dark circles and under-eye puffiness.
Key Benefits: Provides targeted protection for the eye area with a lightweight, fragrance-free formula that’s invisible under makeup.
Usage: is an essential addition to your daily skincare routine for a hydrated, smooth, youthful-looking eye area.
The incorporation of these Medik8 products into your winter skincare regimen ensures protection against UV rays and addresses various skin concerns, from ageing signs to environmental damage. Each product is designed to fit seamlessly into your daily routine, providing both immediate and long-term benefits for healthier, more radiant skin. Ask us about our sunscreen-containing anti-ageing creams when you are next in the clinic!
