The Short Answer is: Yes!

There is a common misconception that sunscreen is only a must-have during the hot summer months. The truth is that we need to use sunscreen all year round, regardless of the season. Read on below to find out just why.

UVA Rays Can Cause Harmful Effects Whatever The Season

One of the biggest mistakes you can do when it’s cold outside is to skimp - or totally skip - on sunscreen. UVB rays are the ones that cause burns, and although they become weaker in the fall and winter months, UVA rays, which are the culprit for premature skin aging and the formation of fine lines, are as strong in November as they are in April. It’s important to take note that both UV rays are carcinogenic.

In addition to this, the damage that your body receives from sun exposure is cumulative. This means that the long-term effects are significant. Think about this when you make a quick coffee run without sunscreen. This is just as bad as going for a dip in the ocean without sunscreen.

Burns Occur More Because Of Certain Fall Conditions

Outdoor temperatures in the middle of November may give a 30 degree reading, but did you know that you can still get a sunburn in such circumstances? This is possible due to the “reflective” properties of ice.

During fall and winter, there is more ice and snow on the surface of the planet, and these cause a big spike in UV rays reflected off the surface of the ground. So if you’re spending a weekend skiing or hanging out in a scenic winter destination, your skin could be in harm’s way.

Altitude contributes to this harm, too. The higher you go, the closer you are to the sun. that’s why it’s important to protect yourself from sun exposure even if it’s cold out. Treat your winter ski trips and fall hikes the same way you would your summer escapades.

Use The Same Level Of SPF During Summer And Fall

There’s no reason to change the level of SPF that you’re using just because the calendar has changed colors. It’s also wise to widen your horizon when it comes to sun protection. In addition to sunscreen, go for proper layering. Wear hats when it’s sunny outside, and long-sleeved jackets or sweaters when you’ll be staying outdoors.

Also, it’s not enough to focus on the SPF level of sunscreen. Check your labels and choose sunscreen that’s “broad spectrum”, as itprovides both UVA and UVB protection.

Key Ingredients To Look For In Your Fall Skincare Products

As we mentioned earlier, SPF isn’t enough. Make it a habit to check the labels and ingredients list of your skincare products, including sunscreen. When the fall months come knocking, go for sunscreen that contains hydrators such as hyaluronic acid and glycerin. 

After a day outdoors, protect your hands and body with the TreeActiv Repair Butter Hemp Extract, which contains glycerin for optimal hydration. Our rich, luxurious formula works hard to deeply moisturize the skin, improve texture, and reverse the signs of aging. 

It’s also wise to have natural antioxidants in the mix since the UVA rays will be as strong as ever. Combat the damaging effects of the sun by using sunscreen with vitamins C or E. Achieve softer, smoother skin with TreeActiv Ultra Hydrating Body Lotion. It nourishes skin with Vitamins A, C, and E to keep it young and vibrant, no matter what the season.

Of course, don’t forget your face. Whatever the time of year, always go for a minimum of SPF 30. Moisturize your skin while preventing sunburn and damage from harmful UV rays by using the TreeActiv Safflower Oleosomes Daily Natural Moisturizing Face Sunscreen. This face sunscreen provides broad-spectrum sun protection to block both UVA and UVB light from penetrating the skin. 

 

REFERENCES

https://www.skincancer.org/risk-factors/uv-radiation/

https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/10985-sun-exposure--skin-cancer

https://nsidc.org/cryosphere/seaice/processes/albedo.html

https://www.aad.org/media/stats/prevention-and-care/sunscreen-faqs

https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/adult-health/in-depth/best-sunscreen/art-20045110