Best SPF for winter: How to choose your sunscreen for cold, dry weather
When temperatures drop, most people reach for heavier moisturisers, but sunscreen is just as essential in winter as it is in summer. UV rays don’t disappear with the cold, UVA rays are present all year round and reach the lower levels of your skin, causing damage without you realising.
In fact, where winter weather can increase your risk of skin damage, dryness, premature ageing and irritation and coupled with UVA exposure, it’s a recipe for unhappy skin. Choosing the best SPF for winter means finding formulas that protect and nourish your skin in harsher conditions.
Here’s your complete guide to choosing the right sunscreen for cold climates, including why winter UV still matters, what SPF level you should use, and how skin sun protection products with combined SPF and moisturiser can transform your winter skincare routine.
Do you really need SPF in the winter? Yes, and here’s why
1. UVA rays stay strong all year
UVA rays (the ones responsible for ageing and deep skin damage) remain constant through every season. They penetrate clouds, fog, and glass, meaning winter is no time to be lax in applying your SPF.
2. Snow reflects UV rays
If you’re walking outdoors, commuting, or enjoying a winter holiday, snow can reflect up to 90% of UV radiation back onto your skin. So, keep up your daily application and at a minimum it should be SPF30.
3. The ozone layer is thinner in winter
A thinner ozone layer = less natural UV protection, which makes SPF even more essential.
4. Skin is naturally drier in cold weather
Dry skin has a weakened barrier, leaving it more vulnerable to UV damage and irritation. And like Ultrasun products, we combine skin-nurturing ingredients with SPF so you’re getting your moisturiser and SPF protection in one.
What SPF level should you use in winter?
Even on short, cloudy days, we’d recommend SPF 30 or SPF 50, depending on your skin type and sensitivity. As a rule of thumb:
- SPF 30: suitable for everyday if in the city for example, short daylight exposure
- SPF 50 / SPF 50+: best for sensitive skin, anti-ageing routines, and winter trips with bright snow
If your skin tends to feel tight, dry or reactive in winter, a high-protection formula paired with intense hydration is the best combination. If in doubt, we’re always recommend going with SPF50.
What to look for in the best winter SPF
Cold, dry air means your sunscreen needs to do more than just protect, and luckily we have just the products for that... Here are the essential features to look for:
Broad-spectrum protection (UVA & UVB)
Make sure your SPF protects against both burning and ageing rays.
Hydrating or nourishing texture
Winter skin loses moisture fast, so choose an SPF that doubles as skincare. Look for SPF with moisturiser benefits and ingredients like ceramides and hyaluronic acid.
Long-lasting protection
Winter wind and scarves can wear off products faster, so go for photostable, long-wear formulas. Spot the Ultrasun lamellar formulas which reach the lower levels of the skin for long-lasting protection throughout the day, no need to top-up for normal day-to-day wear!
Non-greasy, everyday-use textures
Lightweight formulas prevent pilling under makeup or heavy moisturisers. Look for descriptions which mention fluids, serum-like textures or milks which are super light yet still offer strong protection.
Sensitive-skin friendly
Cold air and low humidity can make skin reactive, so look for Fragrance-free, hypoallergenic options to ensure your skin stays soothed and protected.
What is the best SPF moisturiser for the winter?
Using sun protection products which combine SPF and a moisturiser is one of the easiest ways to simplify your routine in colder months. So, here are a couple recommendations for your daily skincare routine:
Face Fluid Anti-Pigmentation SPF50+
This award-winning daily sun protection is ideal for anyone who’s experience some pigmentation from the summer and enjoys a lightweight SPF that can slot into their daily skincare routine easily. We’ve added ingredient Rainbow Algae, which is proven to reduce pigmentation by up to 27% in just one week.
We love this option for when you want to combine your moisturiser, SPF and a hint of colour. Often our skin in the winter can experience dry patches and flaking, which makes wearing makeup tricky. This smooth cream blends in like a dream, with the essential broad-spectrum protection and in a non-comedogenic formula so it won’t clog your pores. Plus, it’s a great time saver!
Almost serum-like in texture, this SPF protection is ideal for daily use as it delivers essential hydration and defence against UV rays. Added Ectoin® provides antioxidant protection against signs of ageing caused from exposure to the sun, and who wouldn’t want that?
Don’t forget the lips… with Lip Protection SPF50
Often our lips miss out on SPF protection, yet they’re prone to signs of ageing and thinning. Let’s change that with a daily SPF lip balm that not only moisturises, but offers full broad-spectrum protection.
Choosing the best SPF for winter is all about hydration, barrier support and strong UV protection. A moisturising, broad-spectrum SPF doesn’t just prevent sun damage, it helps your skin stay soft, comfortable, and healthy through the coldest months.
Whether you're commuting in the city, hiking in frosty weather, or heading to the slopes, winter SPF is non-negotiable. Opt for hydrating, fragrance-free, high-protection formulas designed to support dry and sensitive skin.