As the days grow shorter and temperatures drop, sunscreen often gets pushed to the back of the cabinet. After all, if the sun does not feel as strong in September and October, do you really need to apply it daily? The truth is yes. Your skin still benefits from protection long after summer ends. Fall is a season when people often let their guard down, which can leave them vulnerable to sun damage that builds over time.
UV Rays Do Not Take a Break
Cooler weather does not mean weaker sunlight. The sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays, which cause skin damage and increase the risk of skin cancer, are present year-round. In fact, up to 80 percent of UV rays can still pass through clouds, meaning overcast fall days are no safer than sunny ones. While the intensity of UVB rays, which cause sunburn, may decrease in the fall, UVA rays that penetrate more deeply and accelerate aging remain constant regardless of the season.
That means even in September, October, and beyond, your skin is still exposed to harmful rays when you are outdoors. Whether you are raking leaves, attending a football game, or enjoying a crisp walk, your skin needs the same protection it did in July.
Sun Protection Beyond the Beach
Fall brings activities that may not feel “sunny” but still increase exposure. Hiking in cooler weather, outdoor sports, and even driving with the windows down can all add up to UV damage. Surfaces like water, glass, and even fallen leaves can reflect rays back to your skin. Because it is not hot, people often do not notice the subtle redness or irritation that signals overexposure.
This is also the time of year when many start skin treatments such as exfoliating peels or retinoids to undo summer sun damage. These treatments can make skin more sensitive to sunlight, making daily sunscreen use even more important.
Building a Year-Round Habit
The best approach is to think of sunscreen as a daily step in your skin care routine, just like brushing your teeth. Dermatologists recommend a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30, applied to all exposed skin. For convenience, many people prefer moisturizers that already include SPF. Do not forget often-missed areas such as the ears, neck, and backs of the hands, which are exposed throughout the year.
By keeping up the habit through fall and winter, you not only protect your skin against premature aging and cancer risk, but you also make sunscreen use second nature. When summer returns, you will already have a strong routine in place.
Sun safety does not end with summer. UV rays are a year-round presence, and consistent sunscreen use is one of the simplest and most effective ways to protect your skin’s health. This fall, do not pack away your sunscreen. Keep it handy and make it part of your daily routine. Your skin will thank you in every season.
by Sabrina Mikita, M.D.
UPMC Dermatology
Sabrina Mikita, M.D., is with UPMC Dermatology and sees patients at 1205 Grampian Blvd., Williamsport. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Mikita, call 570-326-8060. For more information, visit UPMC.com/NorthCentralPa.
