In the dead of winter, with the lack of sunlight and cloudy skies it might seem unnecessary to wear sunscreen, but that is a misconception!

This Week’s Habit: Apply Sunscreen and Moisturizer every day

Wear sunscreen and moisturizer on your face, hands, and neck every day. Be sure to also apply sunscreen to any exposed skin on your chest—this area is particularly fragile and more prone to damage as it directly faces the sun’s rays. Similarly, don’t forget the front and back of your neck, which is often overlooked in skincare routines. Also, moisturize your elbows, feet, knees and other typically dry areas of your body to keep the skin from cracking and damage. 

Why does this matter?

Protecting your skin from the elements with sunscreen and moisturizer helps keep it smooth, supple, and healthy. It can minimize wrinkles, prevent sun damage, and help your skin age well. Cold weather in winter can dry out your skin, leaving it more prone to damage, so frequent moisturizing is often necessary. Sunscreen also reduces the risk of skin diseases down the line.

It may feel counterintuitive to wear sunscreen in winter, but your skin still needs protection from UV rays. Clouds in the sky only block about 20% of UV rays, so 80% still reach your skin! 

A lot of people remember to care for their face but neglect their neck, hands and chest. These areas are usually exposed to the elements and show signs of aging faster, so don’t skip out on frequently moisturizing and applying sunscreen. The way your neck, chest and hands look can be a dead giveaway of your age if you haven’t consistently cared for them. If you need a reminder of why it’s important, take a closer look at people’s hands and neck—you’ll see what I mean!

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Actionable Tip/Challenge:

Find a moisturizer with SPF 30 or higher.
The easier, the better! Why bother with two products when one will do the job? SPF 30 blocks 97% of UV rays, so going higher is usually unnecessary. Apply it in the morning with the tips of your (clean) fingers after you shower or wash your face.

Keep moisturizer or lotion in convenient places.
For example, leave some on the coffee table to apply in front of the TV, or by your bed to put on before sleeping (especially on the soles of your feet!). I keep some in the car for when I notice my hands are dry while waiting at a red light. Find what works for you.

Bonus Tip: Don’t touch or scratch your face absentmindedly.
This can introduce bacteria to your skin, leading to breakouts and other issues.

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Closing Thought:

Your skin is vital to your overall health – it’s the largest organ in the human body and protects you, so remember to return the favor and care for it too. 

This week, make a habit of moisturizing and applying sunscreen. You’ll reap the benefits as your skin stays smooth, glowing and healthy for years to come.

Intentionally Yours,

IE.