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Winter sun can still tan and age your skin. Learn why daily sunscreen and protection are essential for healthy, glowing skin all year round.
Whether it’s a crisp winter morning or a cloudy afternoon, UV exposure remains constant and cumulative.
Although the weather turns colder and the sun feels gentler, we must not forget that UV rays remain harmful even during winter. A common misconception is that sunscreen is only needed in the summer, leading to increased cases of dullness, tanning, and pigmentation as temperatures drop. Sunbeams can still penetrate the skin in cloudy or cold weather. With regular exposure during morning walks, driving, or even sitting by a sunny window cumulative sun damage can occur. This remains one of the most persistent skincare myths dermatologists encounter each year: people stop using sunscreen in winter, assuming they are safe from tanning or photoaging.
Dr Amit Bangia, Associate Director, Dermatology, Asian Hospital, says, “UVA rays penetrate deep into the dermal tissue, accelerating premature ageing, fine lines, uneven skin tone, and loss of elasticity. UVB rays, although weaker in winter, can still cause tanning and hyperpigmentation, especially in individuals with sensitive or acne-prone skin.”
Additionally, cold winds and low humidity can compromise the skin barrier, increasing susceptibility to sun damage. The result is often dry, flaky pigmentation, a condition that can be managed with consistent sun protection.
Dr Bangia adds, “Applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 should be a daily habit, regardless of the season. Even indoor exposure from digital screens or reflected sunlight through windows can cause gradual pigmentation. A light, non-greasy sunscreen is ideal for winter as it doesn’t clog pores.”
For those who spend extended hours outdoors or in the mountains, a waterproof formula is recommended, with reapplication every 3–4 hours. “Pairing sunscreen with a rich moisturiser containing ceramides or hyaluronic acid helps maintain hydration and prevent flakiness,” chips in Dr Bangia.
Winter tanning often goes unnoticed, as skin color changes gradually. By the time it becomes visible, the damage may already be significant and sometimes irreversible. Dermatologists therefore emphasize prevention over correction. “With consistent sun protection, gentle exfoliation once or twice a week, and the use of antioxidants like Vitamin C, it’s possible to maintain healthy, even-toned skin. For existing sun damage, professional treatments such as chemical peels, hydrafacials, or laser toning may be considered under expert supervision,” opines Dr Bangia.
Ultimately, sunscreen is not seasonal, it is a daily essential, like brushing your teeth. Whether it’s a crisp winter morning or a cloudy afternoon, UV exposure remains constant and cumulative. The shift in temperature might make the skin “feel” safe, but the sun never truly rests. Staying sun-conscious throughout the year is one of the simplest yet most powerful ways to protect your skin, prevent tanning, and slow down premature ageing.
Swati Chaturvedi, a seasoned media and journalism aficionado with over 10 years of expertise, is not just a storyteller; she’s a weaver of wit and wisdom in the digital landscape. As a key figure in News18 Engl…Read More
Swati Chaturvedi, a seasoned media and journalism aficionado with over 10 years of expertise, is not just a storyteller; she’s a weaver of wit and wisdom in the digital landscape. As a key figure in News18 Engl… Read More
October 25, 2025, 17:18 IST