When Summer is Over, Do I Still Need To Wear Sunscreen?

Once the dog days of summer have passed, do we really need to keep wearing sunscreen through the cooler months? The answer is: Absolutely.

As temperatures cool and summer fades, it’s tempting to stash away the sunscreen until next year. But that’s a common misconception—one that could cost your skin in the long run.

Sun protection isn’t just for beach days or summer vacations. Exposure to ultraviolet radiation is a year-round concern, even when the skies are overcast or the air turns crisp. Fall may bring cooler weather, but it doesn’t bring a break from UV rays. Here’s why daily sunscreen use should stay in your skincare routine, no matter the season.

Understanding UV Rays: Why Protection Is Always Necessary

The sun emits two primary types of ultraviolet radiation that affect the skin: UVA and UVB rays.

  • UVA rays are present all year long. They penetrate clouds and glass, meaning your skin is still exposed whether you’re driving to work or sitting near a window. These rays reach deep into the skin and are a major cause of fine lines, wrinkles, and premature aging.woman applying sunscreen in mirror.

  • UVB rays are the ones that cause sunburns. While their intensity decreases in winter, they’re still strong enough to damage skin, especially at higher altitudes or around reflective surfaces like snow or water.

Both types of rays contribute to skin cancer, the most common form of cancer in the United States and globally.

Why Sunscreen Still Matters After Summertime

Even in cooler weather, UV rays don’t disappear. In fact, certain fall and winter activities may even increase your exposure:

  • Fall traditions like hiking, apple picking, or tailgating involve prolonged time outdoors, often without realizing how much sun you’re getting.

  • Reflective surfaces like water, wet leaves, and eventually snow can amplify UV exposure, bouncing rays back onto your skin.

  • Cloudy skies offer little protection. Up to 80% of UV radiation penetrates cloud cover.

Bottom line: if it’s daytime, your skin needs protection.

The Benefits of Daily Sunscreen Use

A daily layer of sunscreen provides more than just peace of mind. It helps:

  • Prevent signs of premature aging, such as fine lines, wrinkles, and sunspots

  • Reduce the risk of skin cancers, including melanoma and squamous cell carcinoma

  • Protect the results of cosmetic treatments like chemical peels, laser resurfacing, and microneedling by preventing pigment changes and sun-related damage

By wearing sunscreen consistently, you preserve both the health and appearance of your skin over time.

Choosing the Right Sunscreen Year-Round

Sunscreen isn’t one-size-fits-all. As the weather cools and your skincare needs are shifting, consider the following when selecting a product:

  • SPF 30 or higher is recommended for effective protection

  • Broad-spectrum formulas shield against both UVA and UVB rays

  • Lightweight, hydrating, or cream-based sunscreens can double as moisturizers in drier fall air

  • Mineral sunscreens (with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide) may be gentler on sensitive skin, while chemical sunscreens absorb quickly and wear well under makeup

How to Apply Sunscreen Effectively

To ensure you’re getting the most from your sunscreen:

  • Apply to all exposed skin, including face, ears, neck, chest, and hands—even on chilly days

  • Use 15-30 minutes before heading outside

  • Reapply every two hours when outdoors for extended periods, or immediately after swimming or sweating

  • Protect your scalp with sunscreen or a hat, especially if you have thinning hair or bald spots

  • Don’t forget to apply sunscreen to your children, and start teaching sun safety early

Even if you’re just running errands or driving to work, your skin is still exposed to damaging rays throughout the day.

Healthy Skin Starts with Smart Habits

Sun damage is cumulative, and prevention is the best defense. Whether it’s August, October, or February, your skin still needs daily protection from UV radiation. Sunscreen remains one of the easiest and most effective tools to prevent long-term damage.

If you have questions about sunscreen products or cosmetic treatment aftercare, or if you are concerned about a new or changing spot on your skin, schedule an appointment today with Goodless Dermatology in Orlando, FL. We’re here to help you keep your skin healthy, radiant, and protected all year long.

Sources:

Sunscreen and Your Morning Routine | Johns Hopkins Medicine

Sunscreen Tips, Jacksonville Beach, FL, Jacksonville Beach Dermatology

What you should know about sunscreen, SPF, and protecting your family | Cultivating Health | UC Davis Health

What doctors wish patients knew about wearing sunscreen | American Medical Association