Whether you’re basking in summer rays or bundled up in winter, sunscreen is your skin’s best friend all year long. It’s easy to think sunscreen is only for beach days, but harmful UV rays don’t take a vacation just because the temperature drops. From those sneaky sunbeams reflecting off snow to the everyday exposure while running errands, keeping your skin protected is a year-round affair.  Let’s explore how the sun impacts your skin in more ways than just keeping you warm. 

While the sun’s warmth feels delightful on your skin, it’s important to remember that its rays can do more than just keep you cozy. The same sunlight that gives us that pleasant, sun-kissed glow can also cause sunburn, leading to damage that affects the skin in both the short and long term. Whether you’re lounging by the pool or out for a walk, unprotected exposure to the sun can burn the skin, causing redness, pain and even long-lasting effects like premature aging and an increased risk of skin cancer.

Do you need sunscreen all year round? Yes! Sunscreen is like your skin’s personal bodyguard, shielding it from the sun’s harsh rays. It works in 2 ways: chemically and physically. Chemical sunscreens (like oxybenzone, avobenzone and octinoxate) absorb UV radiation, transform it into heat and release it from the skin. They need about 15-30 minutes to kick in, so applying them before sun exposure is key to effectiveness. On the other hand, physical or mineral sunscreens (zinc oxide and titanium dioxide) sit on the skin’s surface, reflecting and scattering UV rays like tiny mirrors. They start working immediately and are often a better choice for sensitive skin and as a base layer before makeup application. Whether you go chemical or mineral, sunscreen is your skin’s best defense against premature aging, dark spots, sunburns, and damage. 
Ultraviolet rays are always wielding their power even on the cloudiest of days, causing damage that may go unnoticed. You wouldn’t play the guessing game with your body’s internal health, don’t delay knowing the good and bad about your skin’s health. A quick visit to the dermatologist can help spot early signs of sun damage and skin cancer before they evolve into a bigger issue. Book a skin assessment today with THE CENTER for Advanced Dermatology and give your skin the love (and protection) it deserves. Call 602-867-7546 or visit WEBSITE.