Why Redheads Need to Keep Wearing Sunscreen This Fall and Winter

Redhead Season comes to an end on December 21st, and while it’s the time for cozy sweaters, thicker moisturizers and extra lip protection, we can not forget one important product: sunscreen. Yes, sunscreen. If you tossed it away into your summer drawer, go find it again! As redheads, we need to keep wearing sunscreen in the fall and winter.

But, why?

It was recently discovered that redheads are more susceptible to melanoma even without access to the continued sun. Autumn is notorious for cooler temperatures and cloudy skies, which may cause you to think you don’t need sunscreen. However, UVA rays are present year-round, even when it’s cloudy outside. A sunburn can happen in the fall and winter. The damaging rays can reflect off the snow –– which is the reason why you may feel like you got a sunburn after an afternoon on the slopes. The sun can also penetrate through cars and office windows, no matter the time of year.

READ: Sun Protection 101 for Redheads From a 6-Time Melanoma Survivor 

This Redhead Season, wear sunscreen just as you would in the summertime.

Here are four easy tips to stay extra sun protected:

1. Avoid the sun between the hours of 10 AM – 4 PM

This is when the UV index is the highest. Make sure to reapply every two hours, especially if you’re outside walking around during the day.

2. Wear SPF makeup

There are many ‘redhead friendly’ approved makeup products that contain an SPF. This will give you even extra protection. However, don’t just rely on these products to protect your skin. Keep wearing your facial sunscreen too.

‘Redhead friendly’ favorites: Laura Mercier Tinted Moisturizer SPF 20, Neutrogena Mineral Sheers Loose Powder Foundation SPF 20 and Bareminerals bareMinerals Mini Correcting Concealer SPF 20.

3. Opt for a physical or chemical sunscreen

Physical sunscreen:

Contain active ingredients like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide to physically ‘block’ the damaging rays. They literally block UVA/UVB rays and are naturally broad-spectrum. Use this type of sunscreen if you’ll be in the sun all day.

‘Redhead friendly’ favorite: La Roche-Posay Anthelios Clear Skin Dry Touch Sunscreen SPF 60

Pros:

Great for those with sensitive skin

Less likely to clog your pores

Cons:

Can easily rub off

May leave a white-ish residue on the skin

 

Chemical sunscreen:

Contains organic compounds, such as oxybenzone, octinoxate, octisalate and avobenzone, to absorb the sun’s rays and change to heat. This sunscreen works ‘within’ the skin layer and actually penetrates the epidermis and dermis. Use this sunscreen if you won’t be in the sun for a long period of time.

‘Redhead friendly’ favorite: COOLAClassic Sport SPF50 Mango

Pros:

Lighter than a physical sunscreen and absorbs quicker

Great for those swimming and need a water-resistant formulation

Cons: 

Can cause skin irritation due to the ingredients and stinging if it gets in the eyes

May clog the pores

 

READ: High-SPF Sunscreens –– Why They’re Not Better

4. Rock fashionable fall hats

Protect your skin with a fun wool hat or baseball cap.

Rock it like a Redhead! 

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