In winter the sun feels weak, so many people put SPF away until spring. But UV doesn't disappear, and in some situations there is even more of it in winter.
Why you need SPF in winter
- Clouds don't fully protect you. Some UV passes through clouds even on an overcast day.
- Snow reflects UV. Fresh clean snow can reflect up to 80% of UV radiation, so skin gets it from above and below.
- There is more UV in the mountains. UV levels rise by about 10–12% with every 1,000 metres of altitude — important if you ski or snowboard.
- UVA rays are present all year. They are linked to photoaging and pigmentation.
How to choose a winter SPF
- Moisturizing texture — creamy sunscreens don't dry the skin in the cold.
- SPF 50+ and PA++++ — for mountains, skiing and long time outdoors.
- Stick — easy to reapply outdoors.
- Gentle formulas — if your skin is irritated by cold and wind.
How to apply
- SPF is the last step of your morning routine, after cream.
- Apply enough product to your face, neck and ears.
- If you spend a long time outdoors or in the mountains, reapply every 2 hours.
What to choose at GlowSeoul
- Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun: Rice + Probiotics — a sunscreen with rice and probiotics that supports the skin barrier.
- ROUND LAB Birch Juice Moisturizing Sunscreen — a moisturizing sunscreen.
- Dr.Ceuracle Hyal Reyouth Moist Sun SPF50+ PA++++ — a moisturizing sunscreen.
- Torriden DIVE-IN Mild Sun Cream — a gentle sunscreen that hydrates and soothes.
- Centellian24 Madeca Dermashield Mild Sun Cream — a gentle SPF that soothes and supports the barrier.
- Mary&May Vegan Peptide Bakuchiol Sun Stick SPF50+ PA++++ — a stick for reapplying during the day.
Find more in Sunscreens and Sun Sticks.
