Skin Care Articles

Winter Sun Care

by Joyce Black, RN, CPSN

      Why is winter sun more damaging than summer sun?  Wow!!   That question got your attention.  It got your attention because you know as well as I do that we are closer to the sun in the summer than in the winter.  Obviously that sun is more damaging.  Right?  But did you know that according to researchers at Duke University, 95% of sunlight is from UVA radiation?  UVA rays are the longer, more penetrating rays of the sun and those rays affect us all year ‘round. 

     Our skin care specialist mantra has always been, “UVB= Burning—UVA=Aging.  It’s been suggested to me by my much more learned friends at Skin Ceutical Corporation that we should perhaps change the A in UVA to Always.  As the song says, “Winter, Spring, Summer and Fall, all we have to do is…..put on our sunscreen!!!  

     It is necessary to use sunscreen all year long because of the ability of those UVA rays to travel from the sun and reach us, even in the winter.  UVA rays go as far as penetrating light clothing and car and/or office windows.   So don’t tell me that you’re never exposed to the sun!!  Use your sunscreen all year long and as part of your morning regime.  Many of us only use this skin care step during those months when the weatherman tells us of the high UV index.  That’s why my original question makes sense.  Winter sun is potentially more damaging because we assume we don’t need to be protected in the winter. 

      In order to protect your skin cells and the potential for collagen breakdown that promotes wrinkling and skin cancer, those long UVA rays need to be addressed by constant sunscreen vigilance. 

     The type of screen to purchase is also confusing.  I’ll be honest with you.  The sunscreen that covers all wavelengths of UV light the best is basic zinc oxide you can purchase in any drug store.  That pasty white stuff that graced the nose of the most seasoned lifeguard “back in the day” is what saved him/her from potential red, peeling skin and subsequent skin cancer.  Not very elegant but very effective.

     So what are we to do?  Most of you know you can get zinc oxide products that are micronized and more user friendly.  Try to find  sunblocks that contain a good percentage of zinc for more total protection.  If you are wondering how high to go with regard to SPF, chose one at least a number 15.  The FDA has tried to address this question of UVB numbers realizing that the higher number SPF may not be your ultimate answer.  Until this federal control group gets a handle on what is considered a “non-drug,” the consumer must educate themselves on the best,  most effective skin protection product.

     As always, our staff can answer any questions you might have regarding sun protection or rejuvenation desires.  Call us for a free consultation!!