UV levels in Winter : We tend to associate... - Skin Cancer UK

Skin Cancer UK

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UV levels in Winter

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We tend to associate winter with low UV levels and no requirement for sun protection. However, ask any dermatologist if they recommend daily use of sunscreen, all-year-round - and their answer will be yes!Whilst UVB levels may be lower in the UK during winter, UVA levels remain relatively consistent throughout each season and during daylight hours each day. Therefore, daily use of sunscreen with UVA protection will not only help protect your skin from the damaging effects of UV radiation, it will also help to prevent around 80% of the visible signs of premature ageing.ENJOY WINTER SPORTS AND THINKING OF JETTING OFF TO THE SLOPES THIS WINTER? - BE WARNED!Winter sports enthusiasts are at a particularly high risk of sun damage to both their skin and eyes. UV rays can be just as damaging on the ski slopes as they are on a hot, sunny beach! This is because UV radiation increases by approximately 10% with every 1,000m in altitude AND snow and ice reflects up to 80% of UVB!If you enjoy winter sports make sure you pay special attention to protecting exposed skin with an SPF 30+ sunscreen with 4 or 5 star UVA protection and wear high quality eye protection that carries either an EPF (Eye Protection Factor) of 9 or 10, or is labelled CE UV400 or above.

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