I get it. Some people are just not outdoors much when the sun is out. I hear this often when I start to talk about my favorite skin care product - sunscreen. "I am just not outside much. When I do, I slather the sunscreen on!" I do wish it worked that way. It does make sense that if you are not in direct contact with the source the causes the majority of aging concerns with skin (i.e. lines, wrinkles and brown spots), that you would be minimizing the risk. The problem is UVA rays; these type of ultraviolet rays cause this damage over time and are able to penetrate the average window. Consider blue light exposure too. Spending time in front of screens that emit this type of light also contributes to aging skin. (Haven't we all been spending more time in front of our phones, tablets, and computers lately?)

5 Easy Tips To Reduce Winter UV Exposure

So short of lobbying for a 50 gallon drum of your favorite sunscreen to be sold at Costco, here are a few ideas to make it easier to stay protected all year long:

1. Use a zinc-based sunscreen with added hydration in the winter.
2. Look for minerals in your sunscreen - zinc oxide, titanium dioxide, and iron oxides help block UVA and blue light.
3. Use a face and body lotion with at least an SPF 30 - make protection as easy as applying daily lotion! We love EltaMD UV Lotion SPF 30+ here at clara for that reason.
4. Tint the side and rear window of your car. Manufacturers are not required to put UVA protection on those windows - only windshields.
5. Do not use tanning beds or lights - ever. The warmth and sensation of natural sunlight is tempting, the damage it does to skin is not worth it though.

One last, but important mention. There are people that try to protect their skin from UV damage but develop rashes or bumps. This could be anything from a type of contact dermatitis caused by certain ingredients found in some skin care products (even sunscreens) or photodermatitis. If you are experiencing red skin, rashes, or bumps this time of year, it may require the attention of your dermatologist to get relief. Don't rule out UV-induced skin conditions just because you aren't outside or because it is winter!

If you are experiencing rash-like symptoms or changing moles or freckles, please see your dermatology provider. Vanguard Skin Specialists has convenient locations from Parker to Colorado Springs and from Pueblo to La Junta. Call 719-355-1585 to schedule an appointment.