Are you confused about whether you should use sunscreen in winter or not? Many people asked “can I use sunscreen in winter?”
There is a misconception that you need sunscreen during summer only. While sunscreen is your skin’s shield against sunny warm days, you also need sunscreen during cold or cloudy days.
Our skin needs care in every weather. Sunscreen is not an option but it is necessary to maintain skin health. Sunscreen reduces skin aging and pigmentation and dark spots.
In this article, you’ll explore why to use sunscreen in winter. You will also discover what to consider before buying the best sunscreen for cold weather.
Why Do You Need Sunscreen in Winter?
Many wonder “can I use sunscreen in winter?” Some people believe that their skin needs sunscreen while going out in the sun. But it is not true.
Sunrays are harmful throughout the year even in cold months and cloudy days. The ice and snow reflects 80% more rays during winter. So, it is more important to apply sunscreen in the winter.
Research shows that sunrays become more harmful after being reflected by the clouds. The UV rays lead to premature aging of skin. Working regularly in the presence of harsh sun radiations causes skin cancer.
Must Read – Top 6 Sunscreens for Sensitive Skin in India in 2025
Choosing Sunscreen for Winter According to Skin Type
You need sunscreen with SPF 30 and above 30 to protect your skin against harmful rays. The sunscreen with SPF 30 or above blocks 97% harmful sunrays. Choose the best sunscreen in winter according to your skin type –
Dry Skin: If you have dry skin, you should choose the best sunscreen for dry skin in winter. A good sunscreen contains moisturizing ingredients that maintain the natural moisture of your skin.
Oily Skin: The oily skin produces excessive sebum. This excessive oil causes acne and extra shining skin. The best sunscreen for oily skin in winter is mattifying sunscreen.
Sensitive Skin: Sensitive skin has more risks of redness and irritation. You should choose non-comedogenic and fragrance free sunscreen, if you have sensitive skin.
Combination Skin: If you’ve combination skin, then choose sunscreen which has balancing effects.
Some people work at high altitudes. They need the best sunscreen in winter with SPF above 50 for maximum protection against the sun. If you are more active or do some heavy work, you should opt for water and sweat resistant sunscreen.
Benefits of Using Sunscreen in the Winter
Applying sunscreen takes a few minutes but it saves years of your skin health. Broad spectrum sunscreen protects you from sunburn and invisible damages.
| Benefit | Why It Matters in Winter |
| Prevents Sunburn | Snow reflection increases risk |
| Reduces Skin Aging | UVA rays cause wrinkles year-round |
| Protects Against Pigmentation | Stops dark spots from worsening |
| Maintains Skin Health | Combats dryness and UV stress |
| Lowers Skin Cancer Risk | Long-term UV exposure adds up |
Here are some of the effective benefits of using sunscreen in winter:
- Protection Against UV Rays
We can’t detect UV rays with our naked eye. So, your skin becomes exposed to UV rays in summer as well as winter. These rays cause skin issues which are difficult to treat.
- Sunscreen serum for oily skin absorb in your skin and provide protection against UVA rays.
- UV-A rays cause skin aging, wrinkles and saggy skin.
- UV-B sun rays lead to sunburns. Sunscreen with SPF above 50 protects you against sun damage like sunburns.
- Protect Against Reflected Rays
During winter days, ice and snow reflects more UV rays. The risk of UV rays damage increases during the winter. The ice reflects nearly 90% of UV rays, increasing your exposure in winter.
Whether you live in cold areas or visit for the first time, don’t forget to add sunscreen daily skincare. These steps provide you maximum protection against harmful radiations.
- Prevent Dry Skin
The sun rays penetrate in your skin and cause different skin concerns. The harmful rays destroy the skin fibres which are responsible for maintaining the elasticity of the skin.
The rays also damage your skin’s ability to maintain natural moisture content. This leads to dry and flaky skin. You can prevent dry skin in winter by applying sunscreen regularly.
- Even the Skin Tone
Conditions in winter make your skin dry. The UV rays damage the skin and stimulate melanin production. The melanin production leads to tanning, dark spots and uneven skin tone.
Sunscreen reduces the formation of dark spots and uneven skin tone. This gives you a more even complexion. It makes your skin glowing, healthy and bright.
- Prevent Skin Damages
The UV rays are increased in the winter because of reflection. These rays penetrate deeply in the skin and increase the process of skin aging. Your skin becomes more sensitive to sun damages. These radiations even lead to skin cancer.
The harmful UV rays cause skin aging and lead to wrinkles and free lines. The sunscreen protects you against these skin damages by forming a protective layer.
Must Read – 7 Best Sunscreen for Dry Skin That Provide Hydration and Sun Protection
What to Consider When Selecting SPF Sunscreen for Cold Season?
You should choose sunscreen which not only protects your skin against harmful rays but provides you numerous benefits. Here are some factors, you should look for while choosing sunscreen:
- Optimal SPF Level
Sun Protection Factor (SPF) found in sunscreen, saves you from damaging harmful rays. SPF 30 sunscreen is advised by the doctors. The sunscreen prevents skin damage and cancer.
SPF 30 filters out about 97% of harmful UV rays. Sunscreen with SPF 50 blocks 98% of radiation from the sun.
- Protection Across the Broad Spectrum
UVA radiation causes premature aging by penetrating your skin. Your skin starts to show aging signs like wrinkles, fine lines and sagging skin. UVB rays lead to sunburns, dark spots and pigmentation. You should opt for sunscreen which will provide you broad spectrum protection. This sunscreen protects your overall skin health.
- Hydration
The severe dry conditions in winter strip away the natural moisture of your skin. Your skin becomes dry and irritated. Buy sunscreen with moisturizing ingredients. The moisturizing sunscreens protect your skin and maintain the moisture content.
- Non-Greasy Formulation
You should choose non-greasy sunscreen. The lightweight sunscreen absorbs quickly in your skin and provides you maximum protection.
- Water Resistance
People who work outside or engage in heavy activities should opt for water resistant sunscreen. This will ensure their skin protection.
- Fragrance-Free
Some people don’t like fragrances. They can choose fragrance free and non comedogenic formulas.
Must Read – 10 Best Skincare Brands in India for Every Skin Type & Budget [2025]
Conclusion
Sunscreen protects your skin against UV rays. You should apply sunscreen during summer as well as winter. The sunscreen protects your skin against sunburns, skin aging and skin cancer.
You should choose sunscreen in winter according to your skin type. You can opt for non-comedogenic and fragrance free formulas if you have sensitive skin.
We hope that you’ve now got the answer to your query, “can we use sunscreen in winter”.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) : Sunscreen in Winter
1. Is it good to use sunscreen in winter?
Yes, sunscreen is essential in winter too, as the UV rays can penetrate clouds and even reflect off snow, causing skin damage and premature aging.
2. Which sunscreen is best for winters?
You should always choose a hydrating sunscreen with SPF 30+ that also contains moisturizing ingredients like hyaluronic acid or ceramides to protect against dryness and UV damage.
3. Is SPF 30 or 50 better for winter?
SPF 30 is generally enough for everyday winter use. However, if you’re outdoors for long hours (especially in snow or mountains), SPF 50 gives added protection.
4. Do Koreans use sunscreen in winter?
Yes, sunscreen is a year-round habit in Korean skincare. It’s a one of the important products they use for a youthful and even-toned skin.
5. When should you stop wearing sunscreen?
Honestly speaking, you should never stop using a sunscreen. It is needed daily, regardless of age or season, as long as you’re exposed to daylight.
6. Does sunscreen block vitamin D?
It may slightly reduce vitamin D absorption, but not enough to cause deficiency. A balanced diet and a little safe sun exposure can make up for it.
7. Can I apply sunscreen without moisturizer?
Yes, if your sunscreen is hydrating enough. But if you have dry skin, layering a moisturizer with SPF first ensures better hydration and comfort.
8. What age is too late for sunscreen?
It’s never too late! Starting sunscreen at any age helps prevent further sun damage and supports healthier, younger-looking skin.
9. Does sunscreen remove tan?
No, sunscreen doesn’t remove tan—it prevents further tanning and sun damage. To fade an existing tan, you’ll need gentle exfoliation and brightening skincare.
