When the temperature drops and the days get shorter, sun protection is often the first thing to slip off our daily routine. After all, it doesn’t feel sunny in winter — so how much harm can the sun really do?
The truth is, winter sun can be just as damaging as summer sun, and in some situations, even stronger.
Understanding how winter UV works — and how to protect yourself and your family — is key to building healthy, year-round sun habits.
Is the Sun Really Stronger in Winter?
While the sun may sit lower in the sky during winter months, UV radiation doesn’t disappear when temperatures drop.
In fact:
- Up to 90% of UV rays can penetrate cloud cover
- UVA rays remain consistent all year round
- Cold weather does not reduce UV exposure
UVA rays are responsible for long-term skin damage, including premature ageing and increased skin cancer risk. Unlike UVB rays (which cause sunburn), UVA rays are present every day of the year, regardless of season.
Why Winter UV Is Often Overlooked
Winter sun feels less intense because:
- The air temperature is colder
- The sun appears lower
- Skin is often covered by clothing
However, the areas most exposed — face, neck, ears, and hands — are still vulnerable, especially during everyday activities like school runs, walking, or driving.
This false sense of safety is one of the reasons winter UV damage is so common.
Snow Can Increase UV Exposure
If you’re heading on a winter sports holiday, UV exposure becomes even more important.
Snow can reflect up to 80% of UV rays, meaning your skin is hit twice:
- Direct UV from the sun
- Reflected UV from the snow surface
This is why people often experience sunburn while skiing or snowboarding — even in freezing temperatures.
Winter Sun and Driving
One of the most surprising sources of winter UV exposure is driving.
UVA rays can pass through car windows, meaning regular journeys — like commuting or the school run — can result in repeated daily exposure to the same areas of skin.
Over time, this adds up.
Winter Sun Holidays and UV Risk
January is one of the most popular months for winter sun travel. Destinations such as:
- The Canary Islands
- Dubai
- The Caribbean
- Mexico
- Southeast Asia
have significantly higher UV indexes than the UK during winter months.
This sudden increase in exposure can catch skin off guard, especially for children.
Why Children Need Sun Protection in Winter
Children’s skin is more sensitive to UV radiation, and damage in early life can significantly increase the risk of skin problems later on.
Winter sun protection helps:
- Protect delicate skin during outdoor play
- Support school no-touch sun policies
- Encourage independence and healthy habits
- Normalise daily SPF use year-round
Building consistent routines early makes sun safety second nature.
How to Protect Your Skin During Winter
Sun protection doesn’t need to be complicated.
Here are some simple ways to stay protected all year:
- Apply sunscreen to exposed areas daily
- Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with high UVA protection
- Reapply when spending extended time outdoors
- Take extra care during winter sports or holidays
- Encourage children to apply sunscreen independently
Consistency matters more than intensity.
Making Sun Protection a Daily Habit
The easiest way to protect skin in winter is to make sunscreen part of your routine — just like brushing your teeth.
Families often find it helpful to:
- Keep sunscreen by the front door or toothbrush
- Use our Solar Buddie refillable applicator for quick, mess-free use
- Apply before school runs or outdoor activities
- Pack sunscreen in hand luggage when travelling
Small habits can have a big long-term impact.
Winter Sun Protection: The Takeaway
Winter sun may not feel strong, but UV radiation is present every day, even in cold, cloudy conditions.
Protecting your skin — and your children’s skin — throughout winter helps reduce cumulative damage and supports healthier skin for the future.
Sun safety isn’t seasonal.
It’s a year-round habit.