Fall Skincare and Sunscreen Tips

By: Tori Bowlin

September 02, 2022

A senior woman standing by the lake

According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, higher altitude increases the risk of sun-induced skin damage. UV radiation exposure rises 4 to 5 percent every 1,000 feet above sea level. In addition, snow reflects up to 80 percent of the UV light from the sun, meaning that you are often hit by the same rays twice. This only increases the risk of damage.

If you're among the 58 percent of adult Americans who choose not to wear sunscreen, you may be even less likely to apply sunscreen during the fall and winter.

Experts at the William N. Pennington Cancer Institute, explain that exposure to the sun happens when we least expect it, like during our daily commute. The ultraviolet A (UVA) rays can penetrate the windows of your car, office or home and get deep into the dermis, the thickest layer of our skin.

So what’s the solution to preventing skin damage — or even worse, skin cancer — in the colder months?

Apply, then Re-apply Sunscreen

"There are a million sunscreens, so find one that feels good on your skin. Hydrating formulas are great for the drier months, so use a broad spectrum UVA and UVB lotion with a mix of ingredients to ensure you are fully protected."

Still not sure which sunscreen to use? Look for the Skin Cancer Foundation Seal of Recommendation next time you’re out shopping for your sun protection products.

A good rule of thumb is to use about one ounce (a shot glass full) and re-apply every two hours, or more often if sweating. Also, make sure to:

  • Follow directions and shake the bottle before using.
  • Make sure all skin is covered (including neck, ears and lips).
  • For people with thin or thinning hair, apply to the scalp as well.
  • Carry your favorite bottle of sunscreen with you at all times.
Skiers, snowboarders, snowshoers, sledders, snow shovelers and winter enthusiasts take note: When spending time out the snow, we recommend a sport sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30.

UV Blockage and the Level of Protection

  • SPF 15: 93 percent blockage
  • SPF 30: 97 percent blockage
  • SPF 50: 98 percent blockage
  • SPF 100: 99 percent blockage

Are You at Risk?

According to the American Academy of Dermatology, only 9 percent of adult Americans use sunscreen regularly. This statistic attributes to the “why” when we hear that one in five Americans will have some form of skin cancer during their lifetime.

Self-exams are the best way to identify melanoma, the most aggressive form of skin cancer. Here is a step-by-step guide to your self-exam:

Examine your skin head-to-toe once a month, looking for any suspicious lesions.

Know what you’re looking for. As a general rule, to spot either melanomas or non-melanoma skin cancers (such as basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma), take note of any new moles or growths, and any existing growths that begin to grow or change significantly in any other way.

Lesions that change, itch, bleed, or don’t heal is an alarm signal.

Knowing the ABCDE’s of Skin Cancer

A – Asymmetry. If you draw a line through this mole, the two halves will not match.

B – Border. The borders of an early melanoma tend to be uneven. The edges may be scalloped or notched.

C – Color. Having a variety of colors is another warning signal. A number of different shades of brown, tan or black could appear. A melanoma may also become red, blue or some other color.

D – Diameter. Melanomas usually are larger in diameter than the size of the eraser on your pencil (1/4 inch or 6 mm), but they may sometimes be smaller when first detected.

E – Evolving. Any change — in size, shape, color, elevation, or another trait, or any new symptom such as bleeding, itching or crusting — points to danger.

    • Previous Article

    Learn to Spot Skin Cancer

    With skin cancer affecting one in five Americans and 3.5 million new skin cancer cases diagnosed yearly, being proactive about prevention is vital to your health. Dr. Angela Walker, a dermatologist with Renown Dermatology, Laser and Skin...
    Read More
    • Next Article

    Top 3 Dermatology Services

    Our skin loses its elasticity and ability to retain moisture as we age. As a result, sun exposure leads to age spots, wrinkles and even cancer. Dermatologist-recommended treatments can reverse the signs of aging and help resolve skin...
    Read More