How to Protect Your Skin from Sun Damage Year-Round
Published on January 30, 2025 by Westchester Center For Dermatology

When it comes to skin health, preventing sun damage should be at the top of everyone’s list. Believe it or not, ultraviolet (UV) rays can harm your skin regardless of season. Here are some practical tips to make sure your skin stays safe and youthful all year round.
Understanding UV Rays and Skin Health
UV rays come in two types: UVA and UVB. While sun exposure and skin health may seem like summertime worries, these rays can penetrate clouds and glass.
UVA rays cause skin aging and wrinkles, while UVB rays cause sunburn. Both cause premature aging and an increased risk of skin cancer.
The Best Sunscreen for Daily Use
The secret weapon against harmful UV rays is sunscreen! It’s not just for beach days. Sunscreen should be a daily part of your daily skincare routine for sun protection.
Choose a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher. These sunscreens provide UV protection for the skin against both UVA and UVB rays.
Finding the right sunscreen for your skin type is also essential. Options are available for oily, dry, or combination skin.
Lastly, apply sunscreen every two hours, especially if you’re outdoors. If you’re using makeup, consider using a setting spray or powder that contains SPF for easy reapplication.
Don’t Forget the Winter Months
Many people have the misconception that sunscreen is only necessary in summer. However, the importance of SPF in winter cannot be overstated! Snow can reflect up to 80% of UV rays, so you’re exposed even when it’s chilly.
Cover Up with Protective Clothing
Clothing can be an excellent barrier against harmful rays. Here are some tips to prevent sun damage:
- Wear dark-colored long sleeves and pants.
- Accessorize with wide-brimmed hats.
- Invest in UV-blocking sunglasses.
Seeking Shade During Peak Hours
Whenever possible, avoid direct sun exposure during peak hours, which are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. These are when the sun’s rays are the strongest.
Seek shade under trees, umbrellas, or tents. Remember, avoiding sunburn year-round isn’t just about slathering on sunscreen. It’s also about making smart choices regarding sun exposure.
Enhance Your Skincare Routine with Antioxidants
Incorporating antioxidant-rich skincare products can also help fortify your skin against sun damage. Look for serums and creams that contain vitamins C and E.
Vitamins C and E are known to combat oxidative stress caused by UV rays and help maintain your skin’s strength.
Addressing Existing Sun Damage with IPL
While prevention is key, you might already be dealing with sun damage. Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) therapy can be an excellent option for treating brown spots, freckles, or redness.
It uses light energy to heat up and break down pigment cells. This evens out skin tone and improves its overall appearance with minimal downtime.
Westchester Center for Dermatology offers more cosmetic services for treating sun damage. Book your appointment with our dermatologists for a personalized treatment.
One of our doctors, Dr David Kriegel, was selected by his peers as an outstanding practicing doctor in New York in 2024. After an extensive nomination and research process conducted by MSP Communications, the results were published in New York Super Doctors, a special advertising section in the May 4, 2025 issue of The New York Times Sunday Magazine.
Schedule Your Consultation
Protecting your skin is essential for maintaining a healthy, youthful appearance year-round. If you’re ready to take your sun protection efforts to the next level, book an appointment with our board-certified dermatologists at Westchester Center for Dermatology.
Westchester Center for Dermatology is located in Scarsdale and near patients in Hasting on Hudson, Crestwood, Tuckahoe, Thornwood, Pleasantville, Harrison, Hawthorne, and Purchase.