As temperatures cool with the arrival of autumn, some may be tempted to reduce or forgo the use of sunscreen. However, experts caution that ultraviolet (UV) radiation remains a significant factor year-round and continues to pose risks to skin health.

Dermatologists note that while UVB radiation—the primary cause of sunburn—tends to vary with the seasons and is generally lower in cooler months, UVA radiation remains relatively stable throughout the year. UVA rays can penetrate deeper into the skin and contribute to cumulative damage over time, including premature aging and increased risk of skin cancer.

“The sun is always present,” said Dr. Rafah Ali Madanieh, a specialist dermatologist at Medicare Medical Centre. She emphasized that cooler weather should not be interpreted as reduced UV exposure, highlighting that both UVA and UVB play important roles in skin damage and cancer prevention.

Dr. Zaheer Abbas, a dermatologist at SKIN11 Clinic, echoed this view, noting that UVA rays are consistently present and can even pass through window glass more readily than UVB rays. He explained that while the intensity of UVB diminishes in winter, UVA exposure remains a concern for individuals spending time outdoors or near windows.

Experts caution that skin protection should not be contingent on temperature alone. Factors such as geographic location, time of day, season, and duration of exposure play a critical role in the level of UV radiation an individual encounters. Consequently, regular application of sunscreen is recommended regardless of the season.

Dr. Madanieh advised opting for broad-spectrum sunscreens that provide protection against both UVA and UVB rays rather than focusing solely on the sun protection factor (SPF) rating. “For year-round protection, a broad-spectrum sunscreen is more effective than relying on a high SPF alone,” she said.

It is important to note that typical glass windows block most UVB rays but allow varying degrees of UVA to pass through, depending on the type of glass and any protective coatings applied. This means that indoor exposure to UVA radiation can still be significant.

Overall, dermatologists recommend consistent use of broad-spectrum sunscreen throughout the year, even in cooler months, to mitigate the long-term effects of UV radiation on the skin.