How and Why to Protect Your Skin from Sun, Even in Winter

Even in the winter, exposure to sunlight can cause damage to the skin such as premature aging, wrinkles, sagging skin, age spots, and skin cancer. Even if you don't burn, and even on cloudy days, you are being exposed to ultraviolet radiation from the sun. To keep yourself looking young and healthy, and to stay skin cancer free, take the following precautions before stepping outside.

Wear sunscreen with a minimum SPF of 15. Make sure the sunscreen contains zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, and reapply every 80 minutes or sooner if you're exposed to water or sweat.

Sunglasses that protect against UV rays will protect your eyes. Sunglasses are especially important when participating in snow sports, as the sun's rays reflect off the snow.

Shade is your friend, though it doesn't protect you 100%.