It’s not just the heat you need to worry about during the summer. The hidden threat of ultraviolet (UV) radiation is something that should not be ignored.
It’s not just the heat you need to worry about during the summer. The hidden threat of ultraviolet (UV) radiation is something that should not be ignored.
Even on cloudy days, UV radiation can still damage your skin and cause sunburn.
However, sun safety isn’t just about avoiding short-term effects. Prolonged exposure to UV radiation can lead to premature ageing and significantly increases the risk of skin cancers like melanoma – the fifth most common cancer in the UK.[1]
According to Susanna Daniels, CEO of Melanoma Focus, more than five sunburns in your lifetime doubles your risk of melanoma, so burning every year has potentially long-term dangerous consequences.[2]
The charity’s data shows that almost half (49%) of British people experience sunburn at least once every year, rising to 65% among 18–32-year-olds.[3]
Despite this, protection habits remain inconsistent, with 36% of people rarely or never applying sunscreen in the UK summer months, increasing to 42% of men.[4]
HMCA is proud to support UV Awareness Month this July, making it the perfect time to understand the risks and learn how to protect yourself.
What is UV radiation?
Ultraviolet radiation is part of the electromagnetic spectrum and is invisible to the human eye. [5] Its effects on the body are limited to the skin.
There are two main types of UV radiation:
- UVA (ageing rays): penetrate deep into the skin, contributing to wrinkles and premature ageing
- UVB (burning rays): affect the outer skin and are responsible for sunburn[6]
Prolonged exposure to UV radiation damages the DNA in skin cells and is a leading cause of skin cancer.[7]
How to Stay Safe[8]
The UV index, available on most weather apps, indicates the strength of UV radiation. When it reaches 3 or above, it is recommended to take precautions.
Using Sunscreen
- Choose a sunscreen with at least SPF 30
- Ensure it has 4-star UVA protection or higher
- Check expiry using the open jar symbol on the packaging
Most people do not apply enough sunscreen. Adults should aim to use 6–8 teaspoons to cover the entire body.
For best protection:
- Apply 30 minutes before going outdoors
- Apply again just before sun exposure
- Reapply every two hours, and after swimming or sweating
Additional Protection
- Wear a wide-brimmed hat and UV-protective sunglasses
- Choose long-sleeved clothing that blocks sunlight
- Seek shade during peak hours, typically 11am–3pm
Sun safety is not just about avoiding a painful burn today—it’s about protecting your long-term health. With skin cancer rates rising and preventable risk factors still widespread, taking simple precautions can make a life-saving difference.
UV Facts and Figures
- Exposure to UV radiation can cause sunburn, premature aging, and skin cancer[9]
- The truth is that UV rays are just as harmful on cloudy days as on sunny days. Up to 80% of UV rays can penetrate through clouds[10]
- 49% of British people suffer from sunburn at least once every year. This rises to 65% for 18-32 year olds[11]
- 36% of British people rarely or never apply sunscreen when in the UK during the summer months (May to September) and this increased to 42% of men[12]
- Most of the ultraviolet radiation in sunlight is absorbed by oxygen in Earth’s atmosphere, which forms the ozone layer of the lower stratosphere[13]
- Choose a sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher, is broad-spectrum, which will protect against both UVA and UVB rays and is water resistant[14]
- The UV Index forecasts the strength of UV rays each day. If the UV index is 3 or higher in your area, protect your skin from too much exposure to the sun[15]
Join HMCA Today
If you are a member of a group and are interested in becoming a HMCA member, contact the friendly team in Knaresborough by telephone on 01423 799949 or visit hmca.co.uk.
[1] Half of Brits get sunburnt every year as skin cancer rates rise – Melanoma Focus
[2] Half of Brits get sunburnt every year as skin cancer rates rise – Melanoma Focus
[3] Half of Brits get sunburnt every year as skin cancer rates rise – Melanoma Focus
[4] See above
[5] Ultraviolet radiation | Definition, Examples, Effects, Wavelengths, Types, & Facts | Britannica
[6] July is UV Safety Month | Skin And Cancer Institute
[7] Ultraviolet radiation | Definition, Examples, Effects, Wavelengths, Types, & Facts | Britannica
[8] Sunscreen and sun safety – NHS
[9] July is UV Safety Month | Skin And Cancer Institute
[10] July is UV Safety Month | Skin And Cancer Institute
[11] Half of Brits get sunburnt every year as skin cancer rates rise – Melanoma Focus
[12] Half of Brits get sunburnt every year as skin cancer rates rise – Melanoma Focus
[13] Ultraviolet radiation | Definition, Examples, Effects, Wavelengths, Types, & Facts | Britannica