SPF in Winter | by Deidre Ramdhanie
The sun is actually closer to the earth during the winter months , making sunburn a possibility , especially in snowy areas . Spending time snowboarding , skiing , mountain climbing , or engaging in other winter sports makes it imperative to load up on SPF , and even an additional moisturizer below the SPF layer ! Ice and snow are strong UVR reflectors . If there is a personal or familial history of skin cancer , or if you are prone to moles and skin anomalies , it is important to know that mutated cells do not refrain from accumulation in winter months . Skin cancer does not appear overnight ; it is a cumulative process that does not seasonally deactivate . The same can be said for the aging process , hyperpigmentation formation , and acne . With falling temperatures and dry air , the skin ’ s barrier is automatically compromised , as TEWL will increase
UVB primarily affects the epidermal layers and is directly linked to skin cancer . and the lipid barrier can weaken , especially for those who have naturally dry or sensitive skin . The ozone layer is thinner during the winter months , which is why you have less protection from the sun . Even though you are feeling the winter chill , skin can be absorbing more UVR .
Certain landscapes can also increase and potentially double our exposure to UVR . The World Health Organization finds that snow and water reflect up to 80 %. Pavement ranks at 25 %, and 85 % of UVA penetrates through glass . We also need to ensure that clients are not fooled by partially cloudy skies , dreary dark days , and shady areas , where 80 % of UVA rays remain active .
Once you have taught your clients that they need SPF in the winter season , the next question is : which one ?
Ask clients pertinent questions while looking closely at their skin . Struggling with signs of aging ? Oily or dry skin ? Is there a primary concern , or a variety of issues ? Your knowledge of skin types and conditions is the cornerstone to happy clients and accurate product recommendations . While it is necessary to execute a proper verbal or formal consultation and skin analysis , it is also helpful to acknowledge that when it comes to SPF , there is no wrong answer . Much of the product selection will simply boil down to the textural preference of the client . It is also okay for the user to change their formulas seasonally .
Many people will gravitate to Extreme Protect SPF 30 or 40 once the brisk
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