Winter SPF Myths debunked: Why you need sunscreen in cold weather
When the temperature drops and the days get shorter, many people think sunscreen is only for summer. But winter sun can be just as harmful, and misunderstanding SPF in colder months can put your skin at risk without you even realising. In this guide, we’re debunking common winter SPF myths, explaining why UV protection is essential, and showing you the best SPF for winter, even in cold and snowy conditions.
Myth 1: You Don’t Need SPF in Winter
Reality: UV rays are present year-round, and winter has its own unique risks. UVA rays, which cause premature ageing and long-term skin damage, penetrate clouds and glass, making them just as harmful in winter as in summer.
Snow can reflect up to 90% of UV radiation, meaning your skin can be exposed from above and below. This makes high SPF for winter essential, especially if you spend time outdoors skiing, hiking, or walking in bright conditions.
Myth 2: Cold Weather Protects Your Skin
Reality: The sensation of cold can trick you into thinking your skin is safe from sunburn, but low temperatures don’t reduce UV intensity. In fact, higher altitudes and snow-covered landscapes can increase UV exposure.
Winter skin also tends to be drier and more sensitive, which can make it more prone to irritation and sun damage. Using skin sun protection products with combined SPF and moisturiser is an effective way to shield and hydrate simultaneously.
Myth 3: SPF 15 Is Enough in Winter
Reality: We recommend SPF 30 or higher for daily winter use, especially on exposed areas like the face, neck, and hands. If you’re skiing or spending extended time outdoors, SPF 50+ is the best, particularly for sensitive skin.
Even short periods outside in bright, snowy conditions can accelerate UV-related ageing and increase the risk of burning, making strong protection essential. If in doubt, go for SPF50+ in winter!
Myth 4: You Only Need Sunscreen on Sunny Days
Reality: Again, up to 80% of UV rays pass through clouds, so overcast days are not “safe” days. Even low-angle winter sunlight can contribute to skin damage over time.
Regular use of a moisturising SPF for winter ensures consistent protection against both burning and long-term UVA damage, regardless of the weather.
Myth 5: SPF Is Only for the Face
Reality: Hands, ears, lips, and neck are often neglected but are highly exposed to reflective UV, especially in snowy environments.
Ensure exposed skin is 100% covered and look to options such as lip balms and hand creams with SPF added for added protection
Our winter SPF recommendations:
A super nourishing yet lightweight formula, it has broad-spectrum protection and defends you against the wintery weather elements. Plus, because of its clever lamellar technology, it’s long-lasting and effective in defending your skin.
Our lips are one of the thinnest areas on our face, so they deserve extra care and attention! Our nourishing lip balm tackles dry and chapped lips, with high SPF protection from the daily UV rays we’re exposed to.
Hand Cream Anti-Pigmentation SPF30
Alongside our face and lips being constantly exposed to UV rays and the elements, our hands are often prone to dryness and pigmentation during the winter months. Nourish and protect with our SPF hand cream, it’s non-greasy and delivers broad-spectrum protection for where you need it.
Winter can be deceptive, cold temperatures and cloudy skies make it easy to underestimate UV exposure, but the truth is clear: you need SPF year-round. By understanding the facts and using high-protection, moisturising sunscreen, you can prevent burning, premature ageing, and long-term skin damage, even in the coldest months.