The Winter Sun: A Silent Thief of Youth
Why Swiss winters require more than just a heavy coat.
As the temperature drops and the Swiss landscape transforms into a snow-covered wonderland, most of us tuck away our sunscreens alongside our summer wardrobes. It is a logical assumption: if it isn't hot, the sun isn't damaging. However, in the realm of clinical dermatology, the "Winter Sun" in high-altitude regions like Switzerland is often more dangerous than the summer sun at sea level.
The "80% Reflection" Rule
While green grass reflects less than 10% of UV radiation, fresh snow reflects up to 80%. This means that during a day of skiing or even a walk in a snowy Zurich park, your skin is receiving a double dose of radiation: once directly from the sky, and once bounced back from the ground. This "under-the-chin" exposure is a leading cause of premature sagging and hyperpigmentation.
Altitude: The Invisible Amplifier
Scientific data reveals that UV intensity increases by approximately 10% to 12% for every 1,000 meters of altitude. At 2,000 meters, the sun's capacity to damage DNA and degrade collagen is significantly higher than at the coast—even on a cloudy day. UVA rays (the aging rays) remain constant year-round, breaking down elastin fibers and leading to "Winter Photo-aging."
KKUMIDA Top Recommendations
The best winter sunscreen is one that protects from UV rays while acting as a barrier against the dry Alpine air. Here are our top 3 picks:
SKIN1004: Madagascar Centella Hyalu-Cica Water-Fit Sun Serum
The Best for: Dehydrated skin. It feels like a light moisturizer, infusing the skin with Hyaluronic Acid and Centella to soothe irritation caused by cold winds.
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Beauty of Joseon: Relief Sun : Rice + Probiotics
The Best for: Sensitive and dry skin. This viral sensation uses Rice Grain and Probiotics to strengthen the skin barrier while providing a creamy, comfortable finish.
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Tocobo: Bio Watery Sun Cream
The Best for: A weightless, "barely-there" feel. Its bio-watery formula absorbs instantly with zero white cast, perfect for layering under winter makeup.
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Winter Sunscreen FAQ
Essentially, if there is daylight, there is UVA. However, when the UV Index is 0 (usually after sunset), sunscreen is no longer necessary. In winter, UVA rays are present from sunrise to sunset, even behind clouds.
UVA rays can penetrate window glass. If you spend your day by a large window in a bright office, one morning application is usually sufficient, but reapplication is vital if you step out for a lunch walk.
Most foundations are applied too thinly to reach the advertised SPF. For the high-altitude Swiss sun, we always recommend a dedicated sunscreen as your final skincare step.
Protect Your Glow
Explore our full collection of Korean Sun-Care, vetted for the Swiss Alpine environment.
View Sun Care CollectionWE TRANSLATE THE LABELS. YOU MAKE BEAUTY YOURS.
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