Getty Images. By Shani Hillian ·Updated February 18, 2026 /> Getting your Trinity Audio player ready…

HED: The Science of Winter Sun Exposure—And How To Protect Black Skin

DEK: Why UV radiation doesn’t take a seasonal break—and the aesthetician-approved steps to protect yourself

Sunscreen is typically associated with summer, warmer weather, beaches, pools, and sweltering heat. Although most of us spend less time outside in the winter, when we do, we’re bundled and wrapped up to protect ourselves from the cold. While it’s true that the ultraviolet (UV) rays are lower in the winter because the Earth tilts away from the sun, temperature and UV exposure are far less connected than most people realize.

The Damage You Don’t See: What Winter Sun Can Do To Your Skin

UV radiation is invisible and unaffected by how cold it feels outside. In fact, according to the International Agency for Research on Cancer, fresh snow has been reported to reflect up to 85–90 % of incident UVB radiation, with typical reflectance still much higher than most other surfaces. This increased reflectivity means more UV radiation is directed upward toward exposed skin or eyes, contributing to elevated exposure in snowy environments. UVA rays can “penetrate clouds and glass, so you’re still exposed even on overcast days or indoors by windows” says Easton Dermatology Associates in Salisbury, Maryland. The damage from these rays “accumulates over time, leading to various skin issues”, some of which can be severe, like skin cancer, they add. 

The Hidden Consequences of Winter Sun Exposure, Unprotected Accelerated Skin Aging: UVA Rays break down collagen and elastin, even on cold days.Hyperpigmentation and Uneven Skin Tones: Melasma, PIH (post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation) don’t hibernate. Winter sun exposure only reinforces them.Compromised Skin Barrier: It’s already so cold, your barrier is already taking an extra hit but to add sun exposure is a different ball game. It can cause more transepidermal water loss, sensitivity and inflammation.Sunburn and Dryness: I know it’s hard to believe but you can absolutely get a sunburn in the winter, especially while cloudy. It’s also “more than just a temporary discomfort” says Easton Dermatology. Frequent burns increase your risk of developing skin cancer and can contribute to premature-aging. Wear SPF Daily, No Matter The Forecast

Top 5 For Every Skin Type: 

Dry Skin: Le Prunier PLUMSCREEN SPF 31+ This 7x award-winning Plumscreen® combines broad spectrum UVA/UVB/HEV sun protection with the skincare benefits of Le Prunier’s cult-favorite Plum Beauty Oil. Antioxidant-rich Plum Superfruit Complex® shelters skin and protects collagen.

Acne-Prone Skin: Elta MD SPF 46 Broad Spectrum Clear was created specifically for acne-prone skin, hyperpigmentation and rosacea. It’s formulated with 5% Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) to help reduce the appearance of blemishes and discoloration on your skin. This broad spectrum sunscreen contains micronized zinc oxide to protect your skin from damaging UVA (aging) and UVB (burning) rays.

Oily Skin: SkinCeuticals Clear Daily Soothing UV Defense Sunscreen SPF 50 A daily-use sunscreen featuring a mineral and chemical blend that helps soothe and hydrate redness, oily and acne-prone skin.

Sensitive Skin: Ultra Violette Velvet Screen SPF 50 A one-and-done face sunscreen, moisturizer, and primer that drenches skin with all-day bouncy hydration, preps and primes for makeup, and protects the skin from the look of premature aging and harmful UV rays.

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