Advice from SunSmart - the UK's national skin cancer prevention campaign.
Stay safe in the sun - know your risk and how to protect yourself.
Sunburn can double your risk of skin cancer.
So it is important to avoid burning by protecting yourself from the sun. People at most risk have fair skin, lots of moles or freckles or a family history of skin cancer.
Stay Safe - Protect Yourself in the Sun
Remember the SunSmart code:
- Spend time in the shade between 11am and 3pm
- Make sure you never burn
- Aim to cover up with a t-shirt, hat and sunglasses
- Remember to take extra care with children
- Then use factor 15+ sunscreen
Report mole changes or unusual skin growths promptly to your doctor.
Go to the SunSmart website to find out more:
- Stay safe - find out how to protect yourself
- Know your risk of skin cancer
- Know your risk of sunburn
- Find out what skin type you are
- Learn about the UV (ultraviolet) Index
Check the UV Index
Most skin cancers are caused by damage from UV rays in sunlight. These cancers could be prevented if we protect ourselves from the sun.
The strength of UV rays outdoors varies from day to day and according to the time of year. The sun's UV rays are strongest in the hours around midday. This is why it is best to avoid the sun between 11am and 3pm if you can.
The UV index is a measure of the sun's strength, developed to help you know when you need to be careful outside. It is used in weather forecasts and reports.
You can check the five day UV index forecast for different parts of the UK and Europe on the Met Office website, and get real-time UV data for Eastbourne today on our Live Weather page.
More Information
The SunSmart campaign is run by Cancer Research UK on behalf of the UK Health Departments. NHS Direct has advice about treating sunburn.
Health and safety at work guidance about sun protection for outdoor workers is available from the Health and Safety Executive (HSE). You can download the following leaflets for employers and employees from the HSE website:
