Chilly temperatures may have you pulling on cozy sweaters and coats, but don’t be fooled: You can’t stop protecting yourself from skin cancer just because
winter is coming, says Angie Seelal, of Advanced Dermatology P.C.
When the sun is shining bright, it’s easy to remember that ultraviolet, UV, rays that can cause skin cancer—the most common cancer across the globe—are reaching your skin. “But overcast skies and winter weather don’t necessarily block out the rays that can damage your skin cells and lead to skin cancer,” said Seelal, a physician assistant with years of experience treating chronic skin conditions.
The statistics are jolting: 1 in 5 Americans will develop skin cancer by age 70, and more than two people die of skin cancer in the U.S. every hour, according
to the Skin Cancer Foundation. Additionally, more than 9,500 people are diagnosed with skin cancer every day nationwide. “Almost all of us dismiss the
risk of skin cancer or how severe it can be,” Seelal said, “but the reality is that skin cancer poses a threat to nearly everyone, even in winter. Fortunately, there are common-sense steps we can take that lower those risks.”
Winter’s dangers
It’s important to know that harmful UV rays don’t take a break just because the calendar flips to the colder months. While UVB rays, the main cause of sunburn, are stronger in summer, they’re also out in force at high altitudes and on reflective surfaces such as ice or snow. Plus, the thinner atmosphere at
higher altitudes doesn’t block as many rays.
“If you enjoy skiing, skating, snowboarding, or hiking in the snow, cancer-causing UVB rays are out there with you too,” Seelal said. “Snow reflects about
80% of the sun’s UV rays, so they essentially hit your skin twice. A day on the ski slopes is just as dangerous to your skin as a day on the beach.”
Especially on cloudy days, winter sports enthusiasts are at greater risk of skin cancer. It is also important to understand that both snow and strong winds
can wear away any sunscreen protection used and thereby reduce its effectiveness, so it is particularly important to actively reapply at least every 2
hours, according to Seelal. And UVA rays, which stay constant throughout the year, can penetrate glass. “Sitting inside next to the window, in your house or
car, is still potentially skin-damaging on a bright winter day,” she added.
Also, for those who happily benefit from warmer winter temperatures from living in the southern part of the U.S., keep in mind you’re exposed to asimilar amount of UV radiation from the sun year-round. “When the sun remains strong no matter the season, your skin stands at higher risk,” Seelal said.
Tips for prevention
Staying sun-safe in winter is easier from the standpoint that you’re usually wearing more clothing just to stay warm. Coats, hats, scarves, gloves—they all contribute to sun protection merely by preventing the sun from reaching the skin they’re covering. But your face, head and neck are typically exposed
all year long, so Seelal advises paying close attention to preventing skin cancer on these vulnerable areas. How to do that?
She recommends wearing:
• UV-blocking sunglasses to protect your eyes
• Broad-brimmed hats
• Moisturizing, broad-spectrum sunscreen that’s SPF 30 or higher on all exposed skin, including the top of the ears, around the eyes and near the hairline
• As in summer, avoiding sun exposure during peak hours of 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. is wise during the winter months, Seelal added.
“Skin cancer is largely preventable, and it just takes a little extra thought to protect ourselves in the winter months,” she said. “Don’t let your guard
down just because it’s cold outside.” (Submitted)
Angie Seelal, RPA-C is a Certified Physician Assistant through the National Commission of Certification of Physician Assistants. Advanced Dermatology
P.C. and the Center for Laser and Cosmetic Surgery (New York & New Jersey) is one of the leading dermatology centers in the nation, offering highly experienced physicians in the fields of cosmetic and laser dermatology as well as plastic surgery and state-of-the-art medical technologies. www.advanceddermatologypc.com. Call us in Rye Brook at 937-7593
