We usually think of sunscreen as a beach-day product. Once the weather cools down, many people quietly drop SPF from their routine – especially if they’re mostly indoors.
But your skin meets UV every single day, all year round. And travel days (airports, planes, road trips) often mean more exposure, not less.
Let’s break down why SPF in winter and while travelling still matters, and how to make it simple.
UVA vs UVB – the short version
There are two main types of UV that reach our skin:
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UVB – “burning” rays
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Stronger in summer
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Cause sunburn
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UVA – “ageing” rays
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Present all year, from sunrise to sunset
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Penetrate deeper into the skin
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Can pass through clouds and glass
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Even on a grey, cold day, UVA is still there. That’s why dermatologists recommend daily SPF, not just holiday SPF.
Why winter can still damage your skin
In winter, it’s easy to think “the sun isn’t strong, I’m fine.” But a few things are happening:
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You’re closer to windows – in cars, offices, cafés, planes
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Snow (if you’re travelling somewhere cold) can reflect UV back to your face
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Your barrier may already be drier and more fragile from heaters, cold air and less humidity
So even if you don’t burn, UVA can quietly contribute to pigmentation, fine lines and texture changes over time.
Travel days: sneaky UV exposure
Travel days are almost always “high UV” days:
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Window seats on planes, trains or cars
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Long hours in daylight, even if you’re sitting still
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Less sleep + dry air = a more tired, reactive barrier
A simple rule: if you can see daylight, your skin can see UV.
How to actually use SPF in winter & on trips
Daily SPF doesn’t have to be complicated. A few simple habits go a long way:
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Make it the last step of your morning routine
Gentle cleanse → moisturizer → SPF. That’s it. -
Use enough
Most people under-apply. You want a generous, even layer over face, ears and neck. -
Reapply when needed
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Every ~2 hours if you’re outdoors or by a window all day
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Before and during long flights if you’re in a bright window seat
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Pair it with barrier care
SPF works best on skin that’s hydrated and supported. A kind cleanser and a good moisturizer keep your barrier calm so SPF sits and performs better.
At SADE, our Glow Veil SPF 50 PA++++ was created to be that “every single day” formula – a lightweight, non-comedogenic 5-in-1 glow SPF that works in dry cold, warm humid and everything in between. If your SPF feels heavy or clogs your pores, you’re less likely to use it, so texture really matters.
Bottom line
Winter, travel days and indoor life don’t mean “no sun.” UVA is there whether you feel heat or not. A gentle cleanser, a barrier-supporting cream and a comfortable, everyday SPF are some of the simplest long-term investments you can make in your skin.
Think of sunscreen as brushing your teeth: not dramatic, not glamorous, just something you do for your future self – all year.
