Should You Wear SPF in Winter?
Absolutely yes! If you want to protect your complexion against premature ageing, then suncream in winter is a must.
The fact is that it doesn't matter what the temperature is, nor the weather. UV rays, carried into our atmosphere via sunlight, are ever present, ready to wreak terrible havoc on delicate skin cells.
The Skin Cancer Foundation explains that harmful UVB rays are one of the main causes of sunburn. While at their strongest during summer, UVB rays are a determined beast, penetrating through dense cloud, rain, wind, fog and even windows, as well as reflecting off surfaces like snow and ice. And guess what? They’re even more damaging at higher altitudes. That’s why you’ll see skiers wearing ski goggles and sunblock. They know the perils of not doing so all too well.
Okay you’re thinking but I don’t live in the High Alpes, so should you wear SPF in winter UK? Let’s explain a little further why it’s a rather good idea to make wearing SPF part of your daily skincare routine, regardless of which season it is, even in lower altitudes.
UVB Rays are particularly nasty because they damage the skin cell’s DNA, meaning that they are a primary cause of skin cancer. UVA rays, while less energetic are also thought to be damaging, causing skin cells to age and the complexion to become lined, wrinkled and hyperpigmented as well as also playing a part in skin cancer too. This much is clear - you don’t have to be a boffin to understand that SPF in winter is extremely important.
SPF30 versus SPF50
Initially when you look at the vast range of SPF products on the market, it can seem overwhelming. There are so many questions that need answering. SPF30 or SPF50? Matte or shiny? SPF drops, lotion or cream? You’d be forgiven for thinking it's more trouble than it's worth but although it may seem daunting to begin with, stick with it because we know the perfect sunshield for you. Let us introduce you to Dr Dennis Gross sunscreen.
Dr Dennis Gross All Physical Lightweight Wrinkle Defense is a fantastic lightweight, 100% mineral, daily SPF that can be used as the final step in your skincare routine, all year round.
With a high SPF30 rating, it protects the complexion from harmful UVA/B rays as well as future-proofing it against fine lines, wrinkles, and hyperpigmentation. Aside from Zinc Oxide for super strength protection against photo ageing, blue light and pollution, this hydrating formula has gorgeous Lingonberry Fruit Extract, known for its skin brightening and moisture locking properties and antioxidant Ferulic Acid to combat those nasty free radicals whose main intent is on reaping damage to skin cells.
Another great thing about Dr Dennis Gross SPF is that it’s oil-free, fragrance-free, and reef-safe so just perfect for those wonderful winter sun holidays that we’re all craving right now. Apply this broad-spectrum sunscreen in the morning after moisturiser, then massage it in until fully absorbed, reapplying every two hours whenever you’re likely to be exposed to the sun for longer periods.
Alternatively, try Dr Dennis Gross Dark Spot Defense Sunscreen SPF50 for the ultimate protection against damaging UV rays throughout the seasons. With a sun protection factor of SPF50, this weightless, non-greasy sun cream only allows 1/50 of the sun’s rays through, in comparison with 1/30 for SPF 30. That also means that it protects the skin for longer and gives that extra level of protection needed by anyone with a fair, sensitive complexion or that is prone to dark spots and hyperpigmentation. It’s also ideal for use at higher elevations or if you’re likely to experience prolonged sun exposure.
Brimming full of natural actives, you won’t find any chemical filters in this exceptional daily sunscreen. Zinc Oxide supplies UVA/B protection whilst enriching antioxidant Mela-C complex defends against damaging free radicals, guarding against lines, wrinkles, and hyperpigmentation.
At last, the search is over and with the addition of a Dr Dennis Gross SPF, you can relax, safe in the knowledge that your skin will be protected all winter long.