Winter UV Awareness
Why Suncare Matters All Year Round
Although summer has passed and the days may be colder and cloudier, UV radiation remains active throughout the year and can still reach the skin. Many people associate suncare only with sunny summer months, yet UV exposure during winter can be equally significant and sometimes even more so.
Winter Weather and Skin Sensitivity
Cold weather itself doesn’t directly damage the skin, but dry winter air can make the skin more sensitive and vulnerable to UV rays. In addition, snow acts as a powerful reflector, bouncing back up to 80% of UV radiation. This reflection can double UV exposure, increasing the risk of skin damage even when the temperature feels low.
To help maintain skin protection and hydration, sunscreen use should remain part of daily skincare routines throughout the winter months.
Increased Exposure in Winter Sports
Winter sports such as skiing, snowboarding, and hiking are popular during colder months, yet they often take place in environments with higher UV exposure. At higher altitudes, UV radiation intensity increases by approximately 4–5% for every 1,000 feet (300 metres) gained in elevation. Combined with snow reflection, this can substantially heighten sun exposure, reinforcing the importance of regular sunscreen application during outdoor activities.
Evolving Product Formats and Consumer Awareness
As consumer awareness of skincare grows, the demand for innovative and convenient product formats has also increased. Newer product formats including sticks, valued for their ease of application and travel-friendliness, and sprays that can be applied over makeup are transforming the suncare category. The emphasis on reapplication for effective protection has driven this trend, aligning with consumer needs for practicality and inclusivity.
Bloom’s Key Tips for Brands Formulating Suncare Products for the EU and UK
Regulatory Compliance and Classification
Ensure that sunscreens are clearly presented as cosmetic products and comply with both EU and UK cosmetic regulations, including appropriate labelling and classification.Claims and Substantiation
All claims must be truthful, evidence-based, and substantiated. SPF and UVA claims should follow ISO validated testing protocols.Broad-Spectrum Protection
Consider providing both UVA and UVB protection to meet broad-spectrum expectations, as recommended by the European Commission for comprehensive sun protection and preferred by many consumers.Avoid Misleading Claims
Refrain from using disputable or misleading claims. Clear, compliant communication builds consumer trust and ensures regulatory adherence.
How can Bloom help?
With expertise in suncare product regulation across the EU and UK, Bloom helps beauty and wellness brands innovate responsibly, ensuring every suncare product is safe, compliant, and trusted by consumers.
In addition to our standard compliance services, as experts in the area of product claims, our team can review your suncare claims (such as “broad-spectrum,” “water-resistant,” or “blue light protection”) and ensure they are evidence-based, compliant, and in line with the latest guidance and regulatory requirements. Additionally, as product forms evolve (sticks, mists, hybrids, makeup-infused), we can advise on classification and regulatory positioning to help brands bring innovation to market confidently.
Get in touch if you’d like to discuss your project with us.
Darshni Pattani