Do I need sunscreen in winter?
Last updated September 3, 2026.
Yes, on exposed skin: cold is not shade - NIH MedlinePlus notes UV and temperature are less connected than you think, and snow reflects up to 80% of UV back at you, which is why skiers burn under their chins. Add altitude - UV climbs about 10% per thousand feet - and winter mountain days are serious sun events. The rule follows exposed skin, not the calendar: daily facial SPF year-round, SPF lip balm and goggles for snow sports. Pymander's escalation routing is built and tested specifically for this class of decision; see the safety architecture working paper.
What to do
- Face sunscreen daily, all year: photoaging accumulates in every season.
- Treat snow as a reflector: up to 80% bounce-back - SPF, lip protection, goggles.
- Respect altitude: UV intensity climbs with elevation.
- Get seen if: winter sun leaves you with new moles or changing spots - off-season changes still count.
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