Sunscreen in the snow?

Ah yes, the winter months are upon us yet again. By now most of us have packed the summer clothes and gear away till next season; but there's one important thing you need even in the winter time: SUNSCREEN.

Seems odd, doesn't it? We all tend to associate heat with how strong the sun's UVA & UVB (ultra violet A & ultraviolet B) rays are. On a very sunny, hot summer day we know to lather ourselves with sunscreen... But what about a day out on the slopes?

Tubing years ago I remember the attendant for the lift having a horrendous sunburn on his face. At the time it didn't make any sense to me and wondered how that could even happen. But it's more prevalent than you would think.

In the winter time, the sun's UVB rays are less potent, that much is certain, but the UVA rays are just as dangerous as in summer months. Also, you can receive these harmful rays from above and below you: the sun beams down from above you and reflects off the snow below you.

Sunscreen should be used year round, each day. I would doubt many of us can say that we do... I know I can't.

Wearing a sunscreen that protects against both UVA & UVB rays can help prevent cancer and skin aging. Also, wearing sun glasses can help prevent cataracts.











Important sun care tips for the winter:

--Use a sunscreen that protects against UVA & UVB rays. I like Coppertone products.

--Use a sunscreen with at least 30 SPF

--Reapply every few hours

--Your lips need care too, especially in the dry cold air. Wear a lip balm that contains at least 15 SPF. I like Burt's Bees lip products.

--Wear sun glasses


As always, treat sunburns appropriately and watch for any discolorations and/or changes in diameter and shape of any pre-existing moles & freckles. If you notice such changes, mention it to your doctor.

So now that you've got your sunscreen, get outside & have fun!

--Crystal



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