With temperatures soaring above 30°C across the UK, here is everything you need to know about UVA, UVB and SPF sunscreen protection to stay safe in the sun.
Understanding Ultraviolet Rays
There are two types of ultraviolet rays emitted by the sun — UVA and UVB. UVA rays are particularly powerful and remain present even on cloudy days. They can penetrate both glass and clouds, reaching deep into the skin. UVA rays can cause long-term damage, including wrinkles, sunspots and skin cancer.
UVB rays are more directly responsible for sunburn and skin reddening. Although they do not penetrate as deeply, they are equally damaging and play a significant role in the development of skin cancer.
What is SPF?
SPF stands for "sun protection factor" and refers to the degree of protection it offers against these rays. For example, if you usually burn after 10 minutes, an SPF 15 will protect you 15 times longer. However, this is a theoretical figure — in practice, the protection diminishes over time. Perspiration, movement and friction from clothing all strip away sunscreen, so it is essential to reapply every two hours regardless of the SPF.
Choosing the Right Sunscreen
According to the NHS, you should seek out a sun protection factor of at least 30 to guard against UVB, and a minimum of four-star UVA protection. UVA protection can also be indicated by the letters "UVA" within a circle, which confirms compliance with the EU standard.
Additional Sun Safety Tips
Sunscreen alone is not sufficient. During the hottest part of the day, it is advisable to stay in the shade. To prevent sunburn, you need to apply sunscreen and wear sunglasses and a wide-brimmed hat that shields your face and neck from the sun.
