Last Update:21 November 2024 12:20 IST

Applying sunscreen as part of your skin care regimen creates a shield that defends against these effects and keeps your skin looking healthy and youthful.

Make sunscreen your first choice this winter and keep your skin glowing, healthy, and ready for whatever the season brings. In the frame: Madhuri Dixit turned 57 on May 15.

As the weather gets colder and the sun’s heat decreases, many of us think that our skin does not need protection. But this common misconception can expose skin to damage caused by ultraviolet (UV) rays. These rays are active year-round, and neglecting sunscreen during the winter months can cause premature aging and dullness. Therefore, it is important to continue using sunscreen in your skin care routine during the winter. Dr Pravin Bera, Skin Expert and Co-Founder Dr.Rashel shares everything you need to know:

The Importance of SPF in Winter

UV light consists of two types of rays known as UVA and UVB. While UVB rays that cause sunburn decrease during the winter months, UVA rays remain present throughout the year. These rays can penetrate deep into the skin and cause signs of aging such as wrinkles, fine lines and skin discoloration. Engaging in activities such as traveling or being indoors near a window puts your skin at risk of exposure to UVA rays that pass through windows and can damage your skin without you realizing it. Therefore, it is very important to continue using sunscreen with SPF 30 or 50 to protect your skin during the winter months.

Applying sunscreen as part of your skin care regimen creates a shield that defends against these effects and keeps your skin looking healthy and youthful.

Advantages of Using Sunscreen to Delay Aging

Sunscreen does more than protect against the sun’s rays. It also serves as an anti-aging companion! Sunscreens containing vitamin C or minerals such as retinol and zinc oxide are particularly beneficial for aging skin types, as they combat radicals that accelerate skin aging by damaging collagen and elastin fibers in skin tissues. Daily application of sunscreen products can reduce the effects of damage caused by sun exposure, reducing signs of aging such as wrinkles and lines, while also helping to prevent skin sagging in the long term.

The antioxidants it contains help increase skin elasticity and create a radiant complexion. Using it regularly will leave your skin not only feeling great but also looking healthier and younger, regardless of the weather conditions.

Protecting Skin Beyond UV Rays

Winter brings additional challenges such as dry air, indoor heating, and harsh winds that strip moisture from the skin. Sunscreen containing moisturizing ingredients creates a shield against environmental aggressors while locking in moisture. Choosing a sunscreen that contains antioxidants and vitamins will provide extra nourishment, keeping your skin supple and resilient all day long.

Choosing the Right Winter Sunscreen

Not all sunscreens are created equal. Opt for lightweight, non-comedogenic formulas to prevent pores from clogging, especially when worn with winter clothing. Products with natural ingredients reduce irritation, making them suitable for sensitive skin.

Look for sunscreens that contain vitamin C, vitamin E, aloe vera or cucumber extracts. These ingredients not only protect against UV rays, but also soften and moisturize the skin, relieving dryness caused by winter.

The Additional Power of Antioxidants

Sunscreens infused with antioxidants offer dual benefits, protection and rejuvenation. Ingredients such as vitamin C and E counteract oxidative stress and increase skin elasticity and radiance. For mature skin, sunscreens containing retinol minimize lines by stimulating collagen production, while zinc oxide provides comprehensive UV protection.

Moisturization Meets Protection

Many sunscreens contain moisturizing ingredients like aloe vera, which calm the skin while replenishing moisture. Additional ingredients such as cucumber and carrot extracts improve skin’s texture and appearance by providing essential vitamins such as A, C and E.

Apply sunscreen generously to dry skin 15 minutes before going outside and reapply every 2-3 hours if you are outdoors for long periods of time. Make this the last step of your morning skincare routine before makeup for optimal protection. By choosing sunscreens with added benefits like antioxidants, vitamins, and soothing natural ingredients, you’ll not only protect your skin, you’ll nourish it. So, opt for sunscreen this winter and keep your skin glowing, healthy, and ready for whatever the season brings.