Cover, Shade, and Protect: Your Sun Safety Checklist for Summer
It is incredibly important to cover, shade, and protect. Here’s how you can stay safe while enjoying the sunshine with our sun safety checklist for summer.
As we head into the warmer months, it’s important to remember that the sun’s rays can be a serious hazard to your skin. Many people think sunburns only happen during beach holidays abroad, but in reality, you can burn even on a cloudy day in the UK. Sunburn is more than a painful inconvenience; it raises your risk of developing skin cancer later in life.
The dangers of sunburn and tanning
A common misconception is that a tan can protect your skin. Unfortunately, that’s not true. There’s no safe way to get a tan; both sunburn and tanning damage your skin’s DNA, which can eventually lead to skin cancer. That’s why it’s essential to protect yourself year-round.
tips for staying safe in the sun
Timing matters. In the UK, the sun is strongest between 11am and 3pm from March to October. Aim to stay in the shade as much as possible during these hours.
Dress for protection. Wear long sleeves, trousers or long skirts, and a wide-brimmed hat that covers your face, neck and ears. Don’t forget UV-blocking sunglasses to shield your eyes.
Use sunscreen correctly. Choose a sunscreen with:
- At least SPF 30 for UVB protection.
- A minimum 4-star UVA protection rating (or the “UVA” symbol in a circle).
- Check the expiry date!
Sunscreen isn’t a free pass to stay out longer. It’s a backup for shade and clothing, not a substitute.
how to apply sunscreen properly
Most people don’t use enough sunscreen. Adults should use about 6 to 8 teaspoons to cover their whole body. Apply it generously to all exposed skin, including your face, neck, ears, and scalp, if needed. Apply it twice: once 30 minutes before heading out and again just before you go outside.
Remember to reapply every two hours and after swimming, towel drying, or sweating, even if the sunscreen is labelled “water-resistant.” Water can wash it away, and the cooling effect can hide the fact that you’re still burning.
protecting children’s delicate skin
Children’s skin is especially sensitive to the sun. Babies under six months old should be kept out of direct sunlight completely. For older children, make sure they’re covered up, seek shade whenever possible, and use at least SPF 30 sunscreen on any exposed skin. Since sunlight helps their bodies produce vitamin D, children under five should also take vitamin D supplements.
eye protection AND beyond
Sunlight doesn’t just affect your skin. Reflected rays can damage your eyes, causing temporary pain and potentially leading to long-term problems like cataracts. Sunglasses with the CE Mark and British Standard certification help shield your eyes from harmful UVA and UVB rays.
For people who spend a lot of time outdoors for work or sports, wearing protective gear and applying sunscreen is critical. Incorporate sun safety into your daily routine just as you would with other health and safety measures.
Did you know? Water, sand, concrete, and even snow can reflect the sun’s rays, increasing your UV exposure. Take extra care in these environments.
be aware of the risks
Early detection is vital in treating skin cancer successfully. Take a few minutes once a month to check your skin. Look for:
- New moles or growths
- Moles that change in size, shape, or colour
- Spots that itch, bleed, or don’t heal
If you notice any of these changes, make an appointment with your doctor as soon as possible.
For those at higher risk, such as people with fair skin, lots of moles, a family history of skin cancer, or those who work outdoors, regular skin checks with a dermatologist are incredibly beneficial.
stay away from sunbeds
Tanning beds and sunlamps use intense UV radiation that can be even more harmful than natural sunlight. They significantly raise your risk of skin cancer and premature skin ageing, and should be avoided completely.
be smart, stay safe
Sun protection isn’t just for beach days. It’s a daily habit that should be part of your routine all year round. The sun sustains life and feels good, but too much of it can be dangerous. Small daily steps can protect your skin, lower your risk of skin cancer, and keep you looking and feeling your best. Cover up, find shade, use sunscreen properly, and keep an eye on your skin. These simple steps can help you enjoy the sun safely and keep your skin healthy for years to come.
For more advice on sun protection, click the link. https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/seasonal-health/sunscreen-and-sun-safety/
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Emily Simpson
Emily is our Learner Engagement Apprentice and is involved with all things social media and content development. She is also responsible for attending career events and maintaining relationships with local schools and colleges.