Winter sun can still cause skin cancer and age spots

Now that it’s winter, many places in the country are experiencing cooler weather and less sunlight. While it may be tempting to slack off on sun protection when the rays aren’t beating down, it’s imperative to stay vigilant through the darker winter months.

“Most ultraviolet rays from the sun can penetrate cloud cover and fog,” said Deborah S. Sarnoff, MD, president of the Skin Cancer Foundation.

Ultraviolet B (UVB) rays, which are mainly responsible for sunburn, are the strongest in the summer. However, UVB rays can burn and damage skin year-round, especially on refl ective surfaces such as snow or ice.

Snow reflects up to 80 percent of the sun’s UV light, so the rays hit twice, further increasing the risk of skin cancer and premature aging. Winter sports enthusiasts should take special care: skiers and snowboarders are at an even greater risk, because these sports take place at a higher altitude, where the thinner atmosphere absorbs less UV radiation.

Ultraviolet A (UVA) rays, which lead to tanning, dark spots and wrinkles, remain constant throughout the year, and can penetrate through clouds and fog. UVA rays can also penetrate glass, so it’s still possible to damage the skin while spending a bright winter day indoors.

The first line of defense against this sun damage, is clothing. Covering up is easier in the winter, however, the face, head and neck tend to remain exposed year-round, and this is where most skin cancers occur.

Don’t forget a wide-brimmed hat and UV-blocking sunglasses before heading out. A hat keeps the head warm, while keeping UV rays from damaging the face and scalp, and sunglasses protect the eyes, while also fighting snow glare.

Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15 or higher daily to all exposed skin, and make sure to cover often-missed spots like the tops of the ears, around the eyes and near the hairline. Consider choosing a moisturizing sunscreen with ingredients like lanolin or glycerin to combat dry winter skin.

Finally, try to avoid the peak sun hours (generally between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. in the winter months), and seek shade when possible.

Winter is here, but that’s no reason to let up on the sunsafe habits practiced during the summer. Continuing sun protection efforts through the colder, cloudier months of the year, reduces the risk of premature skin aging and developing the world’s most common cancer.