Sunscreen All Year Round

It’s an early winter morning, you’re getting ready for the day. You’ve showered, brushed your teeth, applied your sunscreen, and you’re good to go! Yes, I said sunscreen. While cold temps and short days don’t exactly feel like the time to apply some SPF, it’s vital to use sunscreen all year round.

Why?

First and foremost, wearing sunscreen protects yourself against developing skin cancer. UV rays are a proven human carcinogen and you’re exposed to them everyday! If this isn’t enough to convince you, know that sun damage to the skin on your face is the number one cause of premature aging (aka wrinkles!). Sunscreen also helps to keep your skin looking even, and protecting against the development of those brown sun spots. You’ll thank yourself later for wearing sunscreen today.

No Sun? No Excuses.

Just because it’s not 75 degrees and sunny does not mean that harmful ultraviolet sun rays aren’t present. UV rays are present regardless of clouds and cool temperatures. Be sure to choose lotions that are labeled as “broad spectrum” which indicates that you’ll be protected from both UVA and UVB rays (exposure to both can lead to wrinkles, skin cancer, and eye damage). Look for SPF of 15 or higher for everyday use, and opt for ones that are non-comedogenic if you’re prone to clogged pores.

How do I get started?

The good news is that with the emerging knowledge on the importance of wearing sunscreen everyday, many moisturizers and even makeup are now equipped with SPF in them. This means that you don’t necessarily need to reach for the classic lotion that you’d take to the beach. Some favorites include Cera-Ve Ultra-Light Moisturizing Lotion, Olay Daily Defense All Day Moisturizer, and Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Cream. 

Do you decide if you’re going to brush your teeth every morning? Probably not, and applying sunscreen should be no different.

Written by GUADS staff member Emily with contributions from forbes.com.