How to protect yourself from skin cancer in the winter

When temperatures drop, many people forget that protecting your skin from the sun is still essential. The UV index may be trending lower, but some winter activities or conditions—like high-altitude sports or reflective snow—can increase your UV exposure without you realizing it. And harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays can lead to skin cancer—one of the most common cancers in the U.S, but also one of the most preventable. Here are a few things to remember when it comes to keeping your skin safe and healthy this season:

Sunscreen is not just for summer.

UV rays penetrate clouds and reflect off snow, increasing your UV exposure during winter activities like skiing or snowboarding. They also increase at higher altitudes, making you more susceptible to sun exposure. Make sure to:

• Choose broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher to protect against both UVA and UVB rays.

• Apply generously to all exposed skin, including your face, neck, and hands, at least 15 minutes before going outside. Consider a travel-sized sunscreen that can fit in your jacket on the slopes for easy access!

• Reapply sunscreen every two hours, or immediately after sweating or wiping your face.

Shield against wind damage.

Cold winds can strip your skin’s natural barrier, leaving it dry and more vulnerable to UV damage. That’s according to our friends at the የቆዳ ካንሰር ፋውንዴሽን, who recommend following these precautions to prevent damage from windburn:

• Wear windproof jackets or windbreakers during outdoor sports.

• Limit time spent in windy conditions. Take breaks from the slopes every so often or wear a ski mask to protect your face during time spent outdoors.

• Consider sunscreens with emollient-rich ingredients (such as oils, creams or butters) as opposed to light lotions or spray sunscreens. Rich emollient sunscreen adds more moisture to your skin, preventing further damage and keeping your skin moisturized in colder temperatures.

Cover up with hats and goggles.

Your ears, scalp and eyes are often overlooked when it comes to sun protection. But they are highly susceptible to sun damage, and it’s important to cover them properly when you’re outside on a sunny winter day.

• Opt for a snug beanie that covers both your head and ears.

• Wear UV-protective sunglasses or ski goggles to shield your eyes and the delicate skin around them.

Don’t forget your lips! 

Lips lack melanin—a natural pigment that gives color to skin—making them especially prone to sunburn and skin cancer.

• Use a lip balm with SPF 30 or higher and reapply frequently.

Stay vigilant year-round.

Skin cancer prevention never stops—and keeping an eye on your body to know what “normal” looks like for you is important to staying healthy and ahead of cancer.

• Perform monthly self-checks using the ABCDE rule.

• Schedule an annual skin check with your health care provider.

በተጨማሪ አንብብ | What’s it like to get a skin check for the first time

Protecting your skin in winter is just as important as in summer. By making these habits part of your routine, you can reduce your risk of skin cancer and keep your skin healthy all year long.