Should you apply sunscreen in winter?

It is winter in the Netherlands. It’s cold, the sun is shining and you may be spending a lot of time outside. Sledding, ice skating and/or a lovely winter walk. If you go outside, it is also important in winter to lubricate your skin well and protect it against UV radiation.

That you apply yourself in the summer is logical for most people, but also in the winter. Especially when there is snow. Snow reflects the sun’s rays – just like a sandy beach and water in the summer – causing sunburn.

More than 85 percent of UV radiation is reflected in the snow. This can cause your skin to burn extra quickly. If you burn often, you increase the risk of skin cancer, the most common form of cancer in the Netherlands. Using a good sunscreen, preferably with a factor of 30 or higher, is therefore not an exaggeration, even in slightly less radiant and sunny weather. Now do not apply the same cream that you use in the summer, but use a sunscreen that has been developed for winter (sports).

freezing

There is a big difference in these creams. Water-based creams—like most summer sunscreens—freeze on the skin in the cold. Winter (sports) creams therefore contain a lot of fats, so that they also remain easy to spread at low temperatures. In addition, these creams prevent dehydration of the skin; that happens quickly when it’s cold. Are you staying outside for more than two hours? Then apply your skin again.

Take care of your lips

In addition to the anti-sunburn, the lip balm should not be forgotten. Your lips become rough and chapped due to the reflection of UV rays. In combination with cold and possibly a reduced resistance, a cold sore quickly rears its head. If you suffer from this more often and recognize the signs, it is wise to take action quickly.