For many people, Fall and Winter are the most magical times of the year. Crisp air, cozy layers, and golden leaves make everything feel refreshing and new. But here’s something most people don’t realize: Fall and Winter weather can damage your skin just as much as Summer - sometimes even more.
Most people associate sunscreen with hot, sunny days at the beach. But the truth is: UV rays are present year-round, and dry, cold air creates its own set of skin problems. If you’re not protecting your skin during the colder months, you’re leaving it vulnerable to premature aging, irritation, and moisture loss.
Let’s break down why sunscreen in Fall and Winter is a must-have, and how you can build a cold-weather skincare routine that keeps your skin glowing.
Why Is Skincare Important in Fall and Winter?
When the seasons change, your skin’s needs change, too. The drop in temperature, lower humidity, and stronger winds all strip your skin of essential moisture. Add indoor heating and you’ve got the perfect recipe for dry, tight, and irritated skin.
Here are the biggest seasonal factors impacting your skin:
1. Reduced Humidity Causes Dryness
Cooler air holds less water, which means your skin loses moisture more quickly. This process, called transepidermal water loss, leaves skin dry, flaky, and sensitive.
2. Windburn and Irritation
Cold winds can weaken your skin’s natural barrier, leading to redness, stinging, or peeling - similar to a sunburn.
3. UV Damage (Even on Cloudy or Snowy Days)
Think sunscreen isn’t needed in Fall? Think again. Up to 80% of UV rays still penetrate through clouds. Snow and ice make things worse by reflecting up to 90% of UV rays, doubling your exposure. That’s why people often get sunburned on ski trips in the middle of winter.
4. Indoor Heating Dries Out Skin
While cozy, heating systems strip the air of moisture, which dehydrates skin and can lead to irritation.
Fall and Winter Skincare Tips
Here are some dermatologist-approved ways to protect your skin this season:
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Wear sunscreen daily: Apply SPF to your face, neck, and hands - even if you’re indoors or it’s cloudy. UVA rays (the aging rays) pass through windows.
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Switch to a richer moisturizer: Look for ingredients like ceramides, butters (Shea Butter, Mango Butter) and botanical oils (Sunflower Oil, Coconut Oil) to strengthen your skin barrier.
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Use a humidifier indoors: Maintaining 40–50% humidity helps prevent dry, cracked skin.
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Avoid long, hot showers: Stick to lukewarm water to prevent stripping natural oils.
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Layer antioxidants: Vitamin C, pomegranate extract, carrot extract and green tea help protect against free radical damage from UV rays and blue light.
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Protect lips and hands: Carry a hydrating lip balm and hand cream, since these areas are extra vulnerable in colder months.
The Best Sunscreen for Fall and Winter Skincare
Instead of layering multiple products, choose a multitasking sunscreen that hydrates and protects.
My Day Screen® Tinted Drops is a 3-in-1 moisturizer, sunscreen, and foundation alternative designed for year-round use. It delivers:
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✅ UVA, UVB & blue light protection – Defense against skin aging and sun damage.
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✅ Moisturizing hydration – Keeps skin healthy despite dry air and indoor heating with hydrating ingredients such as: mango butter; shea butter; and sunflower oil.
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✅ Tinted finish – Balances skin tone for a natural glow (no heavy makeup needed).
Final Thoughts: Should You Wear Sunscreen in the Fall?
Absolutely. Sunscreen is a non-negotiable year-round skincare essential. By combining it with a rich moisturizer, antioxidants, and barrier protection, you’ll keep your skin radiant and healthy all through Fall and Winter.
✨ Ready to update your cold-weather skincare routine? Browse our collection and shop My Day Screen® Tinted Drops today.