There's a common misconception that SPF products should only be used in spring and summer. Although winter sun may seem less intense, UV radiation still affects our skin.
In winter, the skin on our hands is exposed to many adverse factors such as low temperatures, wind, and dry air, which can lead to dryness and cracking. To protect them, it is worth using hand creams containing moisturizing ingredients such as glycerin, shea butter, or hyaluronic acid, which help maintain an adequate level of moisture in the skin. Additionally, it is advisable to look for products with sunscreens, as UV radiation can damage the skin on the hands throughout the year, especially in winter, when light reflecting off snow intensifies exposure. Ingredients like vitamin E, rice proteins, panthenol, and plant extracts help regenerate the skin, soothing irritation and strengthening its natural protective barrier. Regular use of protective creams helps keep hands in good condition. Furthermore, on colder days, it's worth wearing gloves, which further protect the skin from excessive dryness and adverse weather conditions – says chemist and chemical technologist, Magdalena Kaczanowicz (Racja Pielęgnacja)
What's more, snow reflects 60% to 80% of UV radiation, increasing our exposure to these harmful rays. Therefore, sun protection is just as important in winter as it is in summer, and in fact, all year round.
Besides snow, various surfaces reflect UV radiation to different degrees:
• Water: reflects about 95% of UV radiation, making time spent near water bodies increase the risk of exposure.
• Dry sand: reflects about 25% of UV radiation, so even on the beach on cooler days, it's worth using sun protection.
• Grass: reflects about 3% of UV radiation, which is relatively small but still worth noting.
So how do you protect your hands in winter?
Hands are particularly susceptible to UV radiation when the skin is more sensitive due to low temperatures or wind.
To effectively protect them:
• Use SPF creams: choose broad-spectrum products that protect against UVA and UVB, and apply them to your hands before each outdoor excursion.
• Wear gloves: they provide a physical barrier against UV radiation and protect the skin from cold.
• Moisturize your skin: regular use of moisturizing creams will help maintain the skin's protective barrier, preventing dryness and irritation.
• Avoid washing hands in hot water: choose lukewarm water.
Remember that sun protection is not just a matter of aesthetics, but primarily health. Using appropriate measures prevents premature skin aging and reduces the risk of skin cancer.
