While it might feel silly wearing sunscreen when temperatures aren’t even breaking 50 degrees, we know that applying SPF, even in the winter months, is absolutely essential. Why, you ask? For a whole host of reasons, namely the prevention of sun damage, which includes “wrinkles, brown spots, and uneven pores due to collagen damage,” says aesthetician Graceanne Svedsen.
To get the lowdown on year-round sun care, we reached out to Svedsen and plastic surgeon Dr. David Shafer for their expert sunscreen recommendations. While Dr. Shafer suggests a moderate SPF in colder months, in comparison to stronger sunscreens that you might wear at the beach, Svedsen suggests that winter usage of sunscreen is, in fact, essential because it “protects our skin from shorter UVA rays (or aging rays), which are out all year-round.
To help us weed out the greasy, oily, and breakout-inducing formulas from the lightweight UVA and UVB blockers, we asked Svedsen and Dr. Shafer to recommend their favorite sunscreens of 2017. Keep reading for the best new sunscreens of the year according to our editors and the experts.
1. Sun and Pollution Protection
Elizabeth Arden Prevage City Smart Broad Spectrum SPF 50 Hydrating Shield ($68)
Elizabeth Arden’s sunscreen must be the real deal, as both Dr. Shafer and Svedsen recommend this new lightweight formula that protects from both the sun’s harsh rays as well as “harmful pollution in the air,” according to Dr. Shafer.
2. Tinted Moisturizer With Sun Protection
Trufora Titanium Day Cream ($30)
Byrdie editor Deven Hopp “loves” this relatively new tinted moisturizer, which protects from UVA and UVB rays while also delivering vitamin D to the skin for a more hydrated and youthful-looking complexion.
3. Infrared Protection
SkinMedica Total Defense + Repair Broad Spectrum SPF 34 Tinted Sunscreen ($68)
SkinMedica’s new infrared SPF 34 lotion is another favorite of both Svedsen and Dr. Shafer, as it “provides a range of SPF from 34 to 50+ while incorporating antioxidants to help natural healing and rejuvenation” says Shafer.
4. Everyday Protection
Cetaphil Daily Facial Moisturizer with Sunscreen, SPF 50+, Pack of 2 ($25)
There is a reason both Dr. Shafer and Svedsen recommended Cetaphil sunscreens, as the brand’s products work for almost all skin types. If you have seriously sensitive skin, this daily moisturizer with SPF 50 is a great option.
5. High SPF Protection
Moroccanoil Sun Lotion SPF 50 ($32)
Like all Moroccanoil products, this sunscreen absorbs easily and smells amazing. The only downside is that it isn’t waterproof, however, it is a great option for everyday sun protection because of its SPF 50.
Frequently Asked Questions
Wearing sunscreen in winter is essential because UVA rays, which cause skin aging, are present year-round. Sunscreen helps prevent sun damage such as wrinkles, brown spots, and uneven pores caused by collagen damage, even when temperatures are low.
Experts like Dr. David Shafer suggest using a moderate SPF during colder months, which may be lower than the high SPF used at the beach but still effective in protecting skin from UVA and UVB rays.
Recommended sunscreens include Elizabeth Arden Prevage City Smart SPF 50 for pollution and sun protection, Trufora Titanium Day Cream tinted moisturizer with SPF, SkinMedica Total Defense + Repair SPF 34 with antioxidants, Cetaphil Daily Facial Moisturizer SPF 50+ for sensitive skin, and Moroccanoil Sun Lotion SPF 50 for everyday use.
Tinted moisturizers with SPF, like Trufora Titanium Day Cream, protect against UVA and UVB rays while providing hydration and vitamin D, resulting in a more youthful and healthy complexion.
SkinMedica Total Defense + Repair SPF 34 not only blocks UVA and UVB rays but also incorporates antioxidants that aid in natural skin healing and rejuvenation, offering infrared protection as well.
Yes, Cetaphil Daily Facial Moisturizer with SPF 50+ is recommended for sensitive skin types as it is gentle and effective for daily sun protection without causing irritation.
For everyday use, choose a sunscreen that is lightweight, non-greasy, and suitable for your skin type. Products like Moroccanoil Sun Lotion SPF 50 absorb easily and smell pleasant, making them good daily options, though some may not be waterproof.
Yes, some sunscreens like Elizabeth Arden Prevage City Smart SPF 50 protect not only against UV rays but also harmful pollution in the air, which can contribute to skin damage and aging.
Absolutely. Sunscreen protects the skin from UVA rays that cause collagen damage, leading to wrinkles, brown spots, and uneven pores, thereby helping to maintain a youthful appearance.
