The Science of Winter Sunscreen: 

Sunscreen Isn’t Just for Summer

One of the biggest myths in skincare? That sunscreen is only necessary when it’s hot or sunny out. The truth is, UV radiation is present every single day, regardless of the season—and winter can actually increase your exposure.

Whether you're out for a walk, driving to work, or hitting the slopes, your skin is still absorbing UV rays. And over time, that exposure can lead to hyperpigmentation, photoaging, and increased skin cancer risk—even if you never get sunburned.

Why UV Exposure Doesn’t Stop in Cold Weather

There are two main types of UV rays that affect your skin:

• UVA rays: These go deep into your skin, leading to fine lines, sagging, and dark spots. They’re present year-round and penetrate clouds, glass, and even clothing.

• UVB rays: These are responsible for sunburns. While they’re weaker in winter, snow and elevation can make them more intense than you’d expect.

Key winter UV facts:

• Up to 80% of UV rays still reach your skin on cloudy days (AAD)

• Snow reflects 80% of UV radiation—basically doubling exposure (WHO)

• UVA rays make up 95% of the UV that reaches Earth and don’t decrease in winter (JID)

• Every 1,000 meters of altitude increases UV intensity by 10–12% (EPA)

What Happens to Your Skin in Winter?

Even if your skin doesn’t burn, cumulative damage adds up quietly over time.

• 80% of visible aging comes from UV—not genetics (Clinical, Cosmetic, and Investigational Dermatology)

• Hyperpigmentation and melasma are worsened by sun exposure—even through windows

• Skin cancer risk rises with prolonged exposure, especially when protection is inconsistent

Melanin offers some protection (SPF ~13), but it doesn't block UVA rays. That’s why darker skin tones also need sunscreen in winter—especially for preventing discoloration and early aging.

Winter Sunscreen Myths—Debunked

Myth 1: Cold Weather Means No UV Risk
→ Fact: UV intensity isn’t tied to temperature. You can get just as much sun damage on a cold day as you can in summer.

Myth 2: I Don’t Need Sunscreen Indoors
→ Fact: UVA rays pass through windows. Studies show drivers develop more sun damage on the left side of their face due to constant exposure behind glass (JAMA Ophthalmology).

Myth 3: Sunscreen Isn’t Necessary for Dark Skin in Winter
→ Fact: While melanin provides slight protection, it doesn’t block UVA or visible light, which causes pigmentation and aging.

Winter Activities That Boost UV Exposure

❄️ Skiing, Hiking, Snowboarding

• High elevation means stronger UV rays

• Snow reflection doubles your exposure
  Even cold wind and dry air make skin more vulnerable to damage

🚗 Driving and Commuting

• UVA rays pass through car windows

• Daily exposure adds up fast, even in short trips

🚶♀️ Outdoor Walks or Errands

• UV rays go through clouds

• Winter air strips moisture, weakening your skin’s natural barrier

What to Look for in a Winter Sunscreen

To protect your skin year-round, choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen that covers both UVA and UVB rays. Here’s what matters most in winter:

• SPF 30 or higher: Every day, not just when it's sunny

• Water resistance: Important for snow or sweat

• Hydrating ingredients: Look for jojoba oil, shea butter, or glycerin to fight dryness

• Tinted with iron oxides: Helps protect against visible light, which can worsen hyperpigmentation

How to Apply Sunscreen in Winter

• Use on all exposed skin: Don’t skip ears, lips, neck, and hands

• Apply after moisturizer, before makeup

• Reapply every 2 hours if you’re outside

• Don’t skip just because you’re indoors

BBloom’s Take on Winter Protection

At BBloom, we’ve formulated a mineral sunscreen that works just as well in February as it does in July. We combined:

• Micronized, coated zinc oxide for invisible protection

• Iron oxides to reduce white cast and guard against visible light

• Nourishing plant oils like Abyssinian and jojoba to hydrate and protect

It’s lightweight, blends easily, and doesn’t compromise on protection or comfort.

Bottom Line: Winter Doesn’t Mean Your Skin Is Safe

Snow, glass, clouds—it all still lets UV rays through. Skipping sunscreen in winter isn’t harmless, it’s just damage you won’t notice until it shows up later.

Using sunscreen daily—even when it’s cold—helps keep your skin:

• Even-toned

• Youthful

• Protected long-term

With BBloom’s mineral sunscreen, you don’t have to choose between safety and aesthetics. It’s made to blend seamlessly into deeper skin tones and perform year-round—because your skin deserves care every day.