Know your burn risk

Once you have looked at your skin type and the UV Index you can work out your burn risk. Just use the table below.

What do the different levels of risk mean?

Low risk
No protection needed.

Medium risk
Take care around midday and do not spend too long in the sun unprotected.

High risk
Cover up or seek shade between 11 and 3. Use at least factor 15 sunscreen on exposed skin.

Very high risk
Be sure to or stay in the shade between 11 and 3. And use at least factor 15 sunscreen.

If your skin goes pink or red after time in the sun then you need to take more care.

What next?

If you don't know today's UV index then you can check it by going to the Met Office website.

Also remember to check your skin for any changes. Although dark skinned people have a lower risk of skin cancer, cases do occur. Report any mole changes or skin growths to your doctor.

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