Myths about winter sun While the UV index, the scale used to measure power of the sun's ultraviolet rays at a given time and place, is lower in winter, the sun is still powerful enough to damage your skin. Depending on how long you spend in the sun, you can get a visible sunburn in the winter.
It is possible to build up, and maintain, a beautiful sun tan during your winter holiday. Take an evening out for a real pampering session and give your skin a refreshing exfoliation treatment before you start your tanning process.
Yes, you should continue to use sunscreen in the winter. While the intensity of the sun may be lower during winter months, harmful UV rays can still penetrate the atmosphere and cause damage to your skin. Additionally, snow and ice can reflect UV radiation, potentially increasing your exposure.
UV intensity tends to be highest during the summer months.
The UV index can reach high values even in winter, depending on the region, weather conditions and altitude. Particular caution is therefore required when hiking, skiing, snowboarding and other winter sports activities . In the mountains, the UV intensity increases by around 10-15% per 1,000 metres of altitude.
Snow can also magnify the strength of UV rays. Fresh, white snow reflects the sun's rays, and can up to double your UV exposure. The UV index is a bit lower in winter, but when doubled, it can be on par with summer levels. This exposure is common during activities like ice fishing, tobogganing, or skating.
Try to avoid sun exposure between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. If outdoors, seek shade and wear sun-protective clothing, a wide-brimmed hat, and UV-blocking sunglasses. Generously apply broad spectrum SPF 50+ sunscreen every 1.5 hours, even on cloudy days, and after swimming or sweating.
“In the right winter weather conditions, you can sustain sun damage just as easily as during the summer.” UVB rays, the main cause of sunburn, are the strongest in the summer. However, UVB rays can burn and damage your skin year-round, especially at high altitudes and on reflective surfaces such as snow or ice.
The highest UV index ever recorded was a whopping 43.3. This incredibly high UV index was detected in 2003 at Bolivia's Licancabur volcano. Other areas in South America, like Peru, Chile, and Argentina, often experience UV indexes higher than 25, but this 43.3 UV index was record-breaking.
Ultraviolet radiation can be enhanced well above clear-sky values on cloudy days, especially when there are cirrus and cumulus clouds in the sky. Unfortunately, the average can, in some cases, be a pretty bad deal. Investigators have known since 1964 that clouds can have paradoxical effects on incident UV radiation.
For example, if you're active in winter sports or like to spend a lot of time outside during the colder season, you need a sunscreen that's water- and sweat-resistant. And if you're at higher altitudes, such as a ski resort, look for SPF 50 or higher for the best protection against reflected rays.
UVB wavelengths happen to be the specific wavelengths that trigger vitamin D production in the skin. Nonetheless, clinical studies have never found that everyday sunscreen use leads to vitamin D insufficiency. In fact, the prevailing studies show that people who use sunscreen daily can maintain their vitamin D levels.
The UV Index can range from 0 (when it is nighttime) to 15 or 16 (in the tropics at high elevations under clear skies). UV radiation is greatest when the sun is highest in the sky and rapidly decreases as the sun approaches the horizon. No protection is needed. You can safely stay outside using minimal sun protection.
The intensity of the sun's UV rays reaching the earth's surface, and the UV Index ratings, vary according to many factors. All influence the UV Index in locations across the U.S. SEASONS affect UV radiation, which peaks in spring and summer (April to August), declines in fall, and is lowest in winter.
Environmental Factors: Dry Air and Sun Exposure
Another environmental cause of darkening of the skin is due to dry air and sun exposure. Together, they cause darkening of the skin in the following ways: UV-induced melanin: When your skin is exposed to sunlight, it increases melanin to combat UV damage.
Sunless tanning, also known as UV filled tanning, self tanning, spray tanning (when applied topically), or fake tanning, refers to the effect of a suntan without exposure to the Sun. Sunless tanning involves the use of oral agents (carotenids), or creams, lotions or sprays applied to the skin.
Australia experiences some of the highest UV radiation levels globally, classified as 'Extreme' by the World Health Organization. UV radiation is a prime contributor to skin conditions and requires consistent protection through sunscreen. Year-Round Risks.
UV Index 8-10 means high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. Fair-skinned people may burn in less than 10 minutes.
"A UV index of 11 is considered extreme, and has reached up to 26 in nearby locations in recent years," notes Cabrol. "But on December 29, 2003, we measured an index of 43. If you're at a beach in the U.S., you might experience an index of 8 or 9 during the summer, intense enough to warrant protection.
It's important to keep your skin protected every day, regardless of the weather, to avoid long-term damage and maintain a healthy glow. Keep your skin safe by using a daily SPF, even in winter.
Reasons Why a Sunburn Can Make You Feel Cold
The UV rays that burn your skin can cause the blood to rise to the surface of the skin. This is why your skin feels hot. However, this also causes a large amount of body heat to be lost. When your body attempts to balance this loss of heat, shivering can occur.
Sun damage is still a risk during colder months
Ultraviolet (UV) levels (the amount of damaging rays from the sun) are lower in the winter because the earth tilts away from the sun. However, temperature and UV levels are less connected than you might think.
A UV index of 3-5 is considered moderate and is ideal for tanning. During this range, the sun's rays are strong enough to stimulate melanin production in the skin without causing severe damage. It's important to note that even at this level, prolonged exposure without protection can lead to sunburn.
The maximum UVI of 25 is for the grid cell at 13.5° S, 172° W, centred on Cuzco in Peru. The city is at 3360 m a.s.l., with surrounding terrain extending to over 6000 m a.s.l. As the capital of the Inca empire, Cuzco seems to be well sited for sun worship.
Shade can help you to limit your UV exposure. But you can still get burned in the shade when UV bounces off of surfaces, such as sand, water, or concrete. Using a beach umbrella can help you get less sun, but it may not help as much as you'd expect.