Ultraviolet radiation (UV) plays a very important role in determining climate conditions, natural balance and the energy balance of the planet. UV rays reach the surface to come into contact with the skin, making it a more golden color, since the pigment cells on the outside of the skin release melanin .
However, excessive exposure to rays can have harmful effects on your health. Some people think that protecting yourself from sunlight means protecting yourself when you go to the beach, the pool, or when summer arrives, but what is true about this? Find out what research says about sun protection in winter.
Should I use sunscreen in winter?
Regardless of the temperature or the time of year, the sun emits ultraviolet (UV) rays, a type of invisible radiation that can damage the skin and lead to premature aging or skin cancer. The best defense against the damaging effects of UV rays is to apply sunscreen just like it’s summer.
Although summer is considered the season where UV rays influence the most, they are still very strong in winter, and certain factors related to winter can increase their strength. Snow can reflect up to 80% of UV rays, and for lovers of snow sports, such as skiing or hiking, altitude can also increase their strength by 10 to 12%.
What factors cause ultraviolet rays to affect us the most?
One study found that people who skied at a height of 2 kilometers were exposed to UV rays 20 to 30% more than at a lower altitude. Another study showed that people who participate in alpine sports are at higher risk for squamous cell carcinoma , a type of skin cancer. That is why the importance of protecting your skin in such an important season.
However, snow is not necessarily the cause of a greater reflection of UV rays. Even on a cloudy winter day, up to 80% of the rays can reach the ground, so your skin is still at risk and must be protected.
Therefore, it is widely accepted that sunscreen should be used basically at any time as the skin is exposed outdoors, regardless of the weather conditions you are in. Research shows that both types of rays (UV-A and UV-B) can cause skin cancer , so a broad spectrum sunscreen with an SPF ( protection factor ) greater than 15 should be applied to protect against both .
Some research suggests that skiers should wear at least SPF 30, so anyone who spends a lot of time outdoors in snowy weather should consider wearing these as well.
Conclution
- High exposure to UV rays can negatively affect both summer and winter, that is why if you are outdoors, whether you are training or just taking a walk outdoors, you should consider for health to apply a sunscreen on the skin and wear glasses.
- It is advisable to apply sunscreen every two hours , as well as before and after swimming. It will also be very useful to check the local UV index for each day, as well as the weather report to see how strong the sun’s rays will be.
- Remember that the level of SPF and if it is a broad spectrum sunscreen is identified on the label of any product with these characteristics.
Reference
- Lavalle, L. Should I Wear Sunscreen in Winter? For Greatist [Revised December 2015].
