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Health Officials: sunscreen still important in the winter

By WKTV News

Story Created: Feb 6, 2012 at 5:21 PM EDT

Story Updated: Feb 6, 2012 at 6:25 PM EDT

LIVING HEALTHY (WKTV) - The cold temperatures and cloudy skies in Central New York make it easy to forget about protecting yourself against the sun during the winter months.

Health officials say Ultra Violet B-rays that are associated with sunburn may diminish during the winter, but ultra violet A rays still shine strongly and can cause just as much damage. Outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy activities like skiing, snow-boarding or snow-shoeing are even more susceptible if they remain outside for long periods of time.

"The rules are pretty much the same for summer and winter," said Krista Drake, a public health educator with Oneida County Public Health. "You need the sunscreen, sunglasses, and something else helpful during the winter is lip balm."

Health officials say not to forget to apply sunscreen to all body areas exposed to the sun, including the neck and hands.
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