02/25/2026
Even when winter temperatures in New England dip well below freezing and the sun feels far away, damaging UV rays remain a threat to the only parts of you peeking out this time of year.
Here's what you can do to protect your eyes, eyelids, nose, lips and ears:
☀️ Wear sunscreen: Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 on all exposed skin, including your face, ears, neck, and the area under your chin. Even in winter ❄️.
☀️ Remember your lips: Choose a lip balm with SPF 30 or higher to protect your lips from UV damage. Lips are often neglected, but they can get sun-induced cancers.
☀️ Protect your eyes: Pick sunglasses that offer 99–100% UVA/UVB protection to shield your eyes and the skin around them. Look for labels like “UV400.” Larger frames or a snug, wraparound style help block reflected light from snow and ice, and offer more protection than small fashion sunglasses.
☀️ Accessorize: A wide-brimmed hat or a cap with a brim can shield your face, ears, and eyes from low winter sun and bright, snowy conditions.
☀️ Know your skin: Perform monthly skin self-exams to look for new moles or changes in existing spots, especially on the face and neck. Bring any concerns to your healthcare provider promptly. Early detection of melanoma and other skin cancers significantly improves outcomes.
☀️ Get checked by a professional: An annual skin exam by a dermatologist helps catch suspicious lesions early. This is especially important if you have a personal or family history of skin cancer, fair skin that burns easily, or numerous moles.
Learn more about protecting your skin and eyes from the sun—yes, even in cold, cloudy New England winters: https://cancer.dartmouth.edu/stories/article/protecting-your-skin-and-eyes-sun-even-new-england-winters