Don’t Fall for It: You Still Need Sun Protection

Photo: Matilda Delves - Getty Images

As the weather gets cooler and the days grow shorter, it’s easy to think that you don’t need sunscreen anymore. After all, you’re just taking the dog for a walk, running a few errands or going to work. You’re just outside for a few minutes. And you’re wearing a jacket. That should have you covered, right?

Nope. No matter how cool the temperature feels, the sun’s ultraviolet rays can still cause damage to the DNA in your skin within just a few minutes. Even though your jacket blocks some rays, every little bit of sun you feel on your face, neck, chest, ears or hands accumulates and can lead to the signs of aging as well as skin cancer. And those are the spots where skin cancer appears most often.

While the autumn weather is still nice, you may also be taking advantage of outdoor dining as much as possible. That can add to your sun exposure, too.

The answer? Make sunscreen, a hat and UV-protective sunglasses a daily habit all year long. See our sun protection guide for details.