When we think about skin health, summer usually gets all the attention—sunburns, sunscreen reminders, and long days at the beach make it easy to see why. But when winter rolls around, skin often gets hidden under layers of clothing and pushed to the back of our minds. Ironically, winter might actually be the best time of year to book a skin check with your doctor. Here’s why:
1. Less Sun Exposure Makes Skin Changes More Noticeable
During the cooler months, most of us spend less time in direct sunlight. That means fewer new sun-related skin changes, making it easier for your doctor to spot any moles, spots, or lesions that stand out or may have changed.
2. Untanned Skin is Easier to Examine
Without a tan, the skin’s natural colour and tone are more visible, helping doctors detect subtle irregularities in pigmentation or texture. Dry, pale winter skin can make it easier to identify any warning signs.
3. Time to Treat Before Summer Starts
If something needs to be removed or treated—whether it’s a biopsy, mole removal, or another procedure—winter gives your skin time to heal well before it’s time to wear shorts and swimmers again. Scars or marks from treatment will have more time to fade without sun exposure interfering with healing.
4. Skin Protection is a Year-Round Responsibility
While it might not feel like it, the sun’s UV rays are still strong in winter—especially in Australia. Snow, sand, and even water can reflect UV radiation, increasing your risk of sun damage even on cooler, overcast days. Regular skin checks are essential no matter the season, and winter is a smart time to make it part of your health routine.
Winter might be all about cosy jumpers and hot drinks, but it’s also a golden opportunity to take better care of your skin. Booking a skin check now means you can catch potential problems early, start any needed treatment with plenty of recovery time, and enter summer with peace of mind.
So don’t wait for the sun to come back—take the time now to look after the skin you’re in.
At Montier Health, we offer comprehensive skin checks for both new and existing patients to help detect and treat skin cancer early. At our Benowa clinic, our doctors have a special interest in skin checks and management of skin cancer. Click to book an appointment.
