The Importance of Wearing Sunscreen Year-Round

Many people think sunscreen is only necessary on hot, sunny days. However, dermatologists and skin health experts agree: protecting your skin from the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays is important all year long. Whether it’s summer or winter, clear or cloudy, sunscreen plays a key role in maintaining healthy skin and reducing the risk of long-term damage.

The sun emits two types of harmful rays: ultraviolet A (UVA) and ultraviolet B (UVB). UVA rays penetrate deep into the skin and contribute to premature aging and wrinkles, while UVB rays cause sunburn. Both types can increase your risk of skin cancer, including melanoma, the most serious form.

Even when it’s cloudy, up to 80% of UV rays can pass through the clouds. Snow, sand, and water can also reflect sunlight, increasing your exposure. That means you can still experience sun damage on overcast or cold days, during outdoor activities, or even while driving.

For effective protection, dermatologists recommend using a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. “Broad-spectrum” means the product protects against both UVA and UVB rays.

If you have sensitive or acne-prone skin, look for sunscreens labeled “noncomedogenic” or “for sensitive skin.” Mineral-based sunscreens containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide are often well tolerated.

Water-resistant formulas are helpful during physical activity, swimming, or sweating, but should still be reapplied at least every two hours.

To get the most benefit from your sunscreen:

• Apply it 15 minutes before going outside.

• Use about one ounce (a shot glass full) to cover exposed skin.

• Don’t forget your ears, neck, tops of feet, and back of your hands.

• Reapply every two hours, or more often if you’re swimming or sweating.

Sunscreen should be part of your daily routine, just like brushing your teeth. Apply it to your face, neck, and any exposed areas each morning, even if you’ll spend most of the day indoors. UVA rays can penetrate glass, meaning your skin is still at risk while driving or sitting near windows.

• Use lip balm with SPF 15 or higher.

• Wear protective clothing, a wide-brimmed hat, and UV-blocking sunglasses.

• Seek shade during midday hours when the sun’s rays are strongest.

• Avoid tanning beds, which emit harmful UV radiation.

Sunscreen is a simple, effective way to protect your skin and promote lifelong skin health. By making sunscreen a daily habit, you can reduce your risk of skin cancer, prevent early signs of aging, and keep your skin healthy no matter the season. 

*This article is intended for informational purposes only and should not be substituted for medical advice. For medical questions and advice, it is always best to consult with your trained physician.

Sources: 

Center for Drug Evaluation and Research. (n.d.). Sunscreen: How to help protect your skin from the sun. U.S. Food and Drug Administration. https://www.fda.gov/drugs/understanding-over-counter-medicines/sunscreen-how-help-protect-your-skin-sun 

Sunscreen. The Skin Cancer Foundation. (2025, October 20). https://www.skincancer.org/skin-cancer-prevention/sun-protection/sunscreen/ 

Sunscreen faqs. American Academy of Dermatology. (n.d.-d). https://www.aad.org/media/stats-sunscreen