As temperatures in parts of the UK are expected to plummet to as low as –20°C, many might think sunscreen is only for sunny days. But Fox Pharmacy‘s Dr Deborah Lee and Cult Beauty are reminding the public that protecting your skin from harmful UV rays is just as important during freezing weather.
Recent data highlights a growing interest in sun protection during colder months, with searches for “sunscreen for cold weather” up by 140%, “how much SPF do I need” increasing by 175%, and “how much sunblock do I need on my face” soaring by 240%. Despite this rising curiosity, an alarming 60% of UK adults remain unsure about the correct amount of sunscreen to apply.
Dr Lee emphasises the need for continued vigilance, even in icy conditions. “UV radiation remains a threat year-round, and snow can reflect up to 80% of UV rays, increasing your exposure,” she explains.
Proper sunscreen application for winter days
To ensure maximum protection, Dr. Lee recommends the following amounts of sunscreen for different parts of the body:
- Face and neck: Two teaspoons.
- Arms: One teaspoon per arm.
- Legs: One teaspoon per leg.
- Chest and stomach: Two teaspoons.
- Back and shoulders: Two teaspoons.
When applying sunscreen, she advises following these steps for effective coverage:
- Shake the bottle thoroughly before use to eliminate clumping.
- Adopt the three-finger rule for the face, gently tapping the sunscreen onto your skin rather than rubbing it in.
- Distribute small, evenly sized dots on exposed areas of the body and massage until fully absorbed.
- Pay attention to commonly missed areas, such as the ears, neck, hands, and feet.
- Apply 15 minutes before heading outdoors to allow proper absorption.
Winter SPF awareness gains momentum
The collaboration between Cult Beauty and Dr. Lee aims to tackle misconceptions about sunscreen use in cold weather. The focus is not just on UV protection but also on promoting sustainable and effective skincare habits.
Cult Beauty, known for its commitment to transparency and sustainability, offers a wide range of SPF products designed for year-round use. Whether you’re navigating snowy streets or enjoying outdoor winter activities, the right sunscreen can help shield your skin from damage.
The increasing public awareness around winter SPF use is encouraging, but as Dr. Lee notes, “It’s essential for everyone to incorporate sunscreen into their daily skincare routine, no matter the season.”
