Winter Sunscreen & Skincare: Why SPF Is Not Seasonal
When the temperatures drop and the days get shorter, sunscreen is usually the first thing people forget about. Winter feels dark, cold, and far from “sunburn weather,” so SPF often gets pushed to the back of the cabinet until summer rolls around again. But here’s the truth your skin really needs you to know: UV damage doesn’t take a winter break—and neither should your sunscreen. Winter sun exposure can be just as harmful (and in some cases more harmful) than summer sun exposure. Here’s why SPF is a year-round essential and how to care for your skin during the colder months.
Why SPF Is Not Seasonal
UV Rays Don’t Disappear in Winter. UV radiation comes in two main types: UVA and UVB.
• UVB = Burning rays (stronger in summer)
• UVA = Aging + cancer-causing rays (present every day, year-round)
Even on cloudy, snowy, or freezing days, up to 80% of UVA rays penetrate clouds and windows. That means your skin is still exposed whether you’re outside, driving, or sitting near a window.
Snow Actually Increases UV Exposure
If you’ve ever gone skiing and come home with a surprise winter sunburn, this is why. Snow reflects up to 80% of UV radiation. This essentially doubles your exposure—your skin gets hit from above and below. That’s more reflection than water, sand, or concrete.
Winter Activities Put You Closer to the Sun
If you enjoy skiing, snowboarding, winter hiking, or any mountain activities, UV rays are even stronger at higher elevations. For every 1,000 feet of elevation gain, UV exposure increases by about 4–5%.
Cold Air Doesn’t Protect Your Skin
Winter dryness can actually make your skin more vulnerable. When your skin barrier is compromised, UV damage can go deeper and cause more inflammation, irritation, and premature aging.
Winter SPF Tips:
Use Broad-Spectrum SPF 30+ Every Day.
Look for “broad-spectrum,” which means it protects against both UVA and UVB rays. Apply it to your face, neck, ears, and hands every morning—even if you’re not going outside. Choose Hydrating Formulas. Winter skin needs extra moisture. Look for SPF with:
• Hyaluronic acid
• Ceramides
• Squalane
• Niacinamide
These ingredients help restore and strengthen your skin barrier.
Don’t Forget Lips & Eyes
Your lips and the thin skin around your eyes are especially vulnerable.
• Use an SPF lip balm
• Wear sunglasses with UV protection (yes, even in winter!)
Reapply on Winter Activity Days
Skiing? Building a snowman? Walking your dog in the sunshine?
Reapply SPF every 2 hours, especially when around snow.
Build Your Winter Skin-Care Routine
Great winter routine supports moisture, barrier health, and sun protection:
• Gentle cleanser – Avoid stripping your skin.
• Hydrating serum – Hyaluronic acid or peptides.
• Rich moisturizer – Creams > lotions in winter.
• Daily SPF 30+ – Non-negotiable.
• Optional: Face oil or overnight mask for extra hydration.
At Bloom IV, we are proud to offer Skinbetter Science products that offer amazing sun
protection, including: Sunbetter TONE SMART SPF 75 Sunscreen lotion and TONE SMART SPF 68. Ask us about
Sunscreen compact. Reach out to see what products would be right for your skin.
We also have incredible products to really pump up the moisture during the winter months. Ask us about Skinbetter Science Trio Rebalancing Moisture Treatment, Trio Luxe Moisture Treatment and our Hydration Boosting Cream.
The Bottom Line
Just because it’s cold outside doesn’t mean your skin is safe from sun damage. The sun’s UV rays are still working overtime—reflecting off snow, shining through clouds, and sneaking in through windows. Protecting your skin with daily SPF is one of the simplest, most effective ways to slow aging, prevent hyperpigmentation, and support long-term skin health. Winter or summer, SPF is always in season.