This is why you shouldn't neglect SPF in February (2025)

When the colder months come around, our skincare routines usually call for an adjustment. Whether it’s ditching a lightweight lip balm for a heavier duty salve or opting for a hydrating serum to revive a dry winter face, it’s normal to adapt with the arrival of a new season.

When it comes to SPF however, some of us are too quick to store it away for the summer. Experts warn that most people don’t know UVA rays are present even when the sun isn’t – and are often a key factor when it comes to skin ageing. Celebrity makeup artist Victoria Penrose explained on Things People Do: “No £80 cream you buy will do anything compared to the damage you’re doing every day by not putting on sunscreen.”

As for facial SPF, Victoria said that “if that’s the one thing you wear and nothing else, it will make you look young and healthy.” Struggling with where to start? We heard from skincare specialists to learn exactly how UV rays work, and how to approach SPF this season.

Unfortunately, since UV rays are present year-round, their impact doesn’t pause just because the temperature drops. Kimberley Medd, Face The Future’s Head of Clinic, says that “UVA rays in particular penetrate deep into the skin, passing through clouds and windows. This can contribute to premature ageing and an increased risk of skin cancer.”

As for UVB rays, which are responsible for sunburn, Kimberley explains: “These can be weaker in winter, but still potent enough to cause cumulative damage over time. Winter skin is already under stress from cold weather and drying indoor heat, so it’s important to use SPF products that not only shield your skin but also replenish it.”

According to Dr. Emma Craythorne, consultant dermatologist and founder of KLIRA, certain skin conditions can especially benefit from SPF. “If you’re wearing it to reduce things like hyperpigmentation, fine lines, or to avoid worsening melasma or rosacea, you should wear facial SPF every day because again, it’s the UVA rays you’re protecting yourself from.”

Kimberley says that UV exposure is a leading factor in prematurely ageing skin, as it accounts for up to 80% of fine lines, wrinkles and skin sagging.

Prevention, as a result, is the focus of wearing SPF on a daily basis. “Incorporating SPF into your daily routine is one of the most effective ways to prevent these, since chronic exposure without protection accelerates skin damage,” says Kimberley.

“This can then lead to hyperpigmentation, uneven texture, and even the breakdown of essential skin proteins like collagen and elastin.”

With hundreds of options on the market, and various numbers floating around, it’s important to learn what suits your skin.

Dr. Craythorne stresses that looking out for a UVA symbol is key. “You want a five-star rating, a PA+ system of more than 4, and a PPD number over 16 – these are all indicators of strong UVA protection.”

She explains that trans-epidermal water loss can exacerbate dryness in the winter – “we lose more water from our skin to the air because cold air holds less moisture, so it’s important to use SPF with occlusive agents during the colder months.”

“A cream-based SPF designed for drier skin types is often more suitable in winter than a spray SPF.”

Kimberley adds that SPF30 and SPF50 are the best choice for both daily wear, and maximum protection. “I advise choosing a broad-spectrum sunscreen that offers both UVA and UVB protection, to ensure your skin is shielded from the full spectrum of potential damage.”

“But if you have fair or sensitive skin, a higher SPF is essential to reduce the risk of sunburn and long-term damage."

Dehydration and dryness are common side effects of cold weather on skin, so Ava Chandler-Matthews, co-founder of Ultra Violette, recommends rethinking your SPF’s formula. “If you tend to be drier in the winter, look for a thicker texture. You want SPFs that have additional hydrating benefits, or formulas which may leave more of a barrier on the skin.”

“In the winter, your skin can become a bit more dull so also opt for any formulations that have a bit more of a glow reflecting properties either through mica or vitamin C,” she adds.

According to Kimberley, “applying SPF should be the final step in your morning skincare routine after cleansing, serums, and moisturiser.”

Ava recommends applying your moisturiser once a day, to round off your morning skincare routine. “Throughout winter, one solid application in the morning is enough. If you’re outside skiing all day, I would recommend another application, but for most people in the UK, you aren’t necessarily seeing any light throughout the day, you might work inside all day and leave when it's dark again.”

Even still, Dr. Craythorne explains that consistency is key when it comes to protecting your skin. “If you’re using SPF to keep your skin looking better for longer or to manage conditions like melasma, then you can’t afford to be lax – you should be using it every day and making it a habit.”