When it comes to skin care, don’t take the winter off

By Dr. Raman Madan

We are still a few months away from the peak summer season, when Long Islanders come out of hibernation to play in the water, on the golf course or local ball field.

The summer fun, I would hope, includes wearing sunscreen to protect skin from harmful summer rays. It’s a tradition we should participate in year-round. Yes, even in winter, sunscreen helps prevent skin cancer, but most people turn away from the preventative measure when the sun isn’t making them sweat or burn.

The sun’s Ultraviolet B (UVB) rays are what lead to summer sunburns, and those rays can cause damage in the winter too. That’s especially the case when they reflect off snow, ice or other bright surfaces. The reflection of snow can be dangerous for those at risk for skin cancer, and while we haven’t seen any measurable snow this winter, anyone going to a ski resort or a vacation to an area with accumulating snow should take note – and take sunscreen with them.

While the rays aren’t as harmful earlier or later in the day, the sun’s Ultraviolet B rays can still be damaging midday, especially from late morning to early afternoon.

There are other ways to protect skin – a human body’s largest organ – during the colder months we are currently enduring. For example, moisturizing creams make a difference when the air is dry, as it generally is in the winter months. Many home heating systems are also pushing out dry air, which can lead to cracking. Your skin can become quite irritable.

It’s also worth noting that hot showers can dry your skin largely because it removes oils that help keep your skin healthy.

Also, use a humidifier. It’s not only good for your skin, but it will also help your sinuses get through the cruel winter months.

Finally, while it’s not top of mind for many people, the next few months are as good a time as any to have that annual screening you’ve been putting off. During winter months, we are wearing more layers, and you – or someone else – might not quickly notice something suspicious.

Before we know it, warmer weather will be back and everyone will be buying sunscreen and thinking about skin safety. Why not start now?