As the weather heats up, make sure you’re using sunscreen!
Even if it’s cloudy, UV rays can still cause sunburn. Follow this advice to stay safe and avoid getting sunburnt, and reduce your risk of developing skin cancer.
Sunscreen and sun safety
Advice for adults and children on sunscreen and sun safety.
Sunburn increases your risk of skin cancer. Sunburn does not just happen on holiday. You can burn in the UK, even when it’s cloudy.
There’s no safe or healthy way to get a tan. A tan does not protect your skin from the sun’s harmful effects.
Sun safety tips
Spend time in the shade when the sun is strongest. In the UK, this is between 11am and 3pm from March to October.
You can also check the UV index on a weather app or website. If it’s 3 or higher, consider protecting your skin.
Make sure you:
- spend time in the shade between 11am and 3pm
- never burn
- cover up with suitable clothing and sunglasses
- take extra care with children
- keep babies under 6 months out of direct sunlight
- use at least factor 30 sunscreen – make sure to use enough and re-apply frequently
