At this time of year, it’s tempting to ignore sun protection needs and concentrate on keeping warm. But sun safety is important year-round, and if you’re engaging in popular seasonal pastimes like cold weather sports or warm-weather vacation breaks, your risk of ultraviolet (UV) radiation damage can be every bit as great as in summer. Both winter wonderlands and tropical paradises present significant threats to your skin’s health.

If you enjoy outdoor winter sports like skiing, skating, or snowboarding, be aware that the sun’s glare reflects up to 80 percent of UV radiation off of snow and ice, meaning that you’ll be hit by these rays twice. Additionally, for every 1,000 feet of elevation, UV exposure increases by 8-10 percent. Consider sport sunscreen formulas designed not to run when you sweat, and don’t forget to reapply at least every two hours. UV-blocking sunglasses will protect your eyes and cut down on glare and the risk of snow blindness.

For those who plan to escape the cold with a visit to a hot, sunny climate, remember that intermittent, intense sun exposure — the kind you get on a winter getaway, often resulting in sunburn — puts you at higher risk for melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer. Furthermore, sand, like snow, reflects back the sun’s UV radiation, increasing the intensity of exposure by 10-25 percent. So don’t use your break from winter weather as an excuse to soak in the sun. Protect yourself by seeking the shade, particularly during the peak hours between 10 AM and 4 PM, and wearing proper attire such as long, loose-fitting clothes in dark- or bright-colored cottons, and a broad-brimmed hat. Finally, a pair of UV-blocking sunglasses and an SPF 15+ sunscreen will help keep your skin sun-safe, whether you’re on the slopes or in the sand.