When the temperature drops and the skies turn gray, it’s easy to forget about sunscreen. Many people assume SPF is only for sunny summer days, but the truth is, your skin needs protection from harmful UV rays year-round (yes, even in the winter).

Why SPF is Important in Winter

UVA rays remain throughout the entire year and contribute to premature aging and skin damage. Snow during the winter can reflect up to 80% of the UV rays, intensifying sun exposure even on cloudy days. Without proper protection, your skin is at risk for:

• Premature aging and fine lines
• Uneven skin tone and hyperpigmentation
• Dryness and irritation (ouch!

Facial SPF Recommendations

Even if you’re bundled up in layers, we recommend you don’t skip sunscreen. Not every sunscreen is built for hardy-weather, so we’d recommend sunscreens containing the following capabilities:

• Broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher to shield against both UVA and UVB rays.
• Hydrating formulas that won’t dry out your skin in cold, dry weather.
• Mineral-based sunscreens for sensitive skin, as they are gentle and effective.

Our Favorite Protection Products

At MassageLuXe, we recommend skincare that protects skin while nourishing. During December through February (meteorological winter) skin is most likely going to be challenged with harsh winds, hot showers, and less moisture. Utilizing an SPF that can protect while hydrating is what our skincare professionals recommend the most.

The following IMAGE and Repechage products are available at most MassageLuXe locations. Call to check with the front desk before visiting!

• Repechage Mineral Face Shield, A skin-friendly formula that is gentle even on the most sensitive skin types. The perfect pre-makeup prep, leaves skin smooth and soft, never greasy
• IMAGE Advanced Smartblend Mineral Moisturizer, A color-correcting daily moisturizer with XOSM™ Technology that soothes, neutralizes redness and boosts hydration to reinforce the skin's vital moisture barrier while providing broad-spectrum mineral sunscreen protection for compromised or sensitive skin.
• IMAGE Protect and Refresh Mist, A hydrating dry-oil SPF 40 sunscreen spray with XOSM Technology™ for touchless reapplication that goes on clear with a glowing, barely there feel.
• IMAGE Pure Mineral Hydrating Moisturizer, A mineral SPF 30 moisturizer with XOSM™ Technology that features advanced antioxidants and hyaluronic acid for all-day hydration and nourishment, plus daily broad-spectrum sunscreen protection.
• IMAGE Ultra Defense Moisturizer, A radiance-boosting moisturizer with SPF 50 and XOSM Technology™ that delivers advanced antioxidant protection with a luminous veil of hydration while providing broad-spectrum sunscreen protection.
• IMAGE Sheer Matte Moisturizer SPF 30, A mattifying SPF 30 moisturizer with XOSM™ Technology that smooths skin's appearance and helps minimize shine with oil-reducing microspheres.
• IMAGE Clear Solar Gel, A completely clear daily moisturizing sunscreen now features proprietary XOSM™ Technology, smart encapsulation system that optimizes the micro-targeted delivery of antioxidants to help protect skin from the visible effects of pre-mature aging. SPF 30.
• IMAGE Sun Serum, A sheer-tinted, all-mineral SPF 30 sun serum protects against UV rays while delivering lightweight hydration. Now featuring patent-pending XOSM™ Technology, a smart encapsulation system that optimizes the micro-targeted delivery of antioxidants to help protect skin from the visible effects of pre-mature aging.

Incorporating SPF into your daily routine helps maintain healthy, radiant skin (no matter your age) and keeps skin glowing long after the snow melts. Pair SPF with your regular facial at MassageLuXe for the ultimate winter skincare treatment, and hydration.

About MassageLuXe

Founded in 2008 in St. Louis, Missouri, MassageLuXe is a fast-growing franchise-based spa company with a mission to provide an unparalleled experience that supports and encourages health, well-being, and quality of life. MassageLuXe delivers the highest quality massage, facial, and waxing services in a comfortable, relaxing, and luxurious environment.

Massage is a service that improves health, promotes relaxation and overall well-being for the consumer, and has been practiced throughout the world for thousands of years. MassageLuXe currently has over 100 locations across 23 states and is planning to double in size in the next three years.