UV Rays: 5 Reasons to Protect Your Skin Through the Winter

Most people realize the dangers of too much sun exposure when they're at a summer picnic or enjoying a day at the beach. What many may not appreciate, however, is that the sun can be just as dangerous during the winter months. Fortunately, continuing good sun safety habits all year round can go a long way to keeping your skin healthy.

As an experienced doctor specializing in complex general surgical oncology, Dr. Trevan Fischer employs state-of-the-art techniques in treating multiple types of cancer, including skin cancer, at his private practice in Santa Monica, California. In addition, his involvement with clinical trials at the Saint John's Cancer Institute allows him to stay abreast of the latest findings and treatment protocols for the best possible outcome for his patients.

Skin cancer

There are three main types of skin cancer — basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma — along with other less common kinds. Given one in five Americans will develop this disease in their lifetimes, it's important to know what things you can do to protect yourself  — even during the winter.

Reasons to protect your skin

With cooler temperatures and weaker sun rays, it's natural to think the sun won't cause as much damage to the skin as it does during the bright, hot summer months. Unfortunately, that is not the case as both UVA and UVB rays can still pose a significant risk.

1. UVA rays outside

UVA rays occur at higher wavelengths than other UV rays and can penetrate deeper into the skin. Their strength remains unchanged throughout the year, including in the winter. They can go through clouds and fog, which means damage can occur even on a cloudy day.

2. UVA rays inside

Many people might assume they are safe inside but think again. UVA rays can also shine through glass, so if you're near a window, they still can cause injury to the skin.

3. UVB rays and snow

UVB rays are the primary cause of sunburns and are at their highest concentration in the summer. However, they can still do damage during the winter months, especially when spending time where there is snow and ice. With its reflective nature, snow can allow up to 80% of the UV light to bounce back up to your skin and hit it a second time. So if you are planning some winter ski trips, make sure your skin is covered.

4. UV rays and high altitude

The higher the altitude, the more intense the UV rays are. In addition, the atmosphere is thinner so it isn't able to block as much of the harmful radiation. Again, keep this in mind if you are planning ski trips to the mountains this winter.

5. UV rays and clouds

Not only can you not count on clouds to protect you from the sun, in some circumstances they can allow UV rays to cause even more damage. If the beams of the sun reflect off the clouds' sides the radiation can be more concentrated.

The good news is there are several steps you can take to protect your skin no matter the season. 

First, use sunscreen. Also, have any suspicious moles or lesions examined by our team.

If you have an unusual-looking mark on your skin or have been diagnosed with skin cancer and are seeking treatment, click to book an appointment with Dr. Fischer or call our office today.