Sunscreen in Winter? Yes! Here's Why Your Skin Still Needs It

Northern Nevada gets over 300 sunny days a year, so the sun is always out—even in winter. Cold air doesn't block UV rays, so sunscreen isn’t just for summer. It’s something you should use every day.

UVA vs. UVB: Know the Difference

• UVA rays are around all year. They go deep into your skin and can cause early aging and increase the risk of skin cancer.
• UVB rays cause sunburn. They’re weaker in winter, but still harmful—especially if you're in snow or at high altitudes.

Winter Sunscreen Tips

Are You Using the Right Sunscreen?

Choose Broad-Spectrum Protection
Look for sunscreens labeled “broad-spectrum.” These protect against both UVA and UVB rays.

Pick SPF 30 or Higher
Use sunscreen with SPF 30 or more every day, even in cold or cloudy weather.

Apply Daily, Even When It’s Cloudy
Make sunscreen part of your morning routine—rain or shine.

Don’t Miss These Spots
People often forget:

• Ears
• Neck
• Lips
• Under the chin
• Around the eyes

Use sunscreen sticks or balms for these areas. They’re easy to apply and less likely to irritate your skin.

Popular options:

• Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Face & Body Stick
• Vanicream Sunscreen Sport Stick

Reapply Every 2 Hours Outside
If you’re skiing, hiking, or playing in the snow, take a travel-size sunscreen with you and reapply every 2 hours.

Sunspot or Skin Cancer? Spot the Difference

Best Sunscreens for Winter

Dry or Sensitive Skin

Use mineral sunscreens with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. They’re gentle and less likely to cause a reaction.

Look for added moisturizers like:

• Hyaluronic acid
• Ceramides

Good options:

• EltaMD™ Sun Care – Lightweight, non-irritating, and free from fragrances and parabens.
• CeraVe Hydrating Mineral Sunscreen – Moisturizing and gentle.
• La Roche-Posay Melt-in Milk Sunscreen – Good for sensitive skin.

Oily or Acne-Prone Skin

Use gel-based or oil-free sunscreens. These won’t clog pores and help keep your skin clear.

Try: Neutrogena Clear Face Liquid Lotion Sunscreen – Non-comedogenic and has a matte finish.

On-the-Go Use

Use sunscreen sticks or sprays for fast touch-ups, especially on the nose and ears.

Winter Face Routine: Hydration + Protection

Cold air and indoor heat can dry out your skin. Here’s how to keep it healthy.

Morning Routine

1. Gentle Cleanser – Use cream or lotion cleansers.
2. Hydrating Toner or Essence – Look for glycerin or rose water.
3. Moisturizer – Choose one with ceramides or hyaluronic acid.
4. Sunscreen (SPF 30+) – Use alone or in a moisturizer with SPF.

Night Routine

1. Gentle Cleanser
2. Hydrating Serum or Face Oil – Jojoba or rosehip oil are good picks.
3. Thick Moisturizer – Helps your skin heal overnight.
4. Lip Balm and Eye Cream – Don’t skip these dry spots!

Extra Tips to Soothe Winter Skin

• Use a humidifier at home to add moisture to the air.
• Drink water throughout the day to stay hydrated.
• Avoid hot showers—they dry out your skin.
• Exfoliate gently 1–2 times a week to remove dry skin.

Renown Dermatology

Trust in Renown Dermatology's expertise to rejuvenate and renew your skin with dermatologist-approved products and services.

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