Prevention & life stages

Sun Safety

Protecting your skin from strong sun — with shade, clothing and sunscreen — helps prevent skin cancer and premature ageing, while still allowing some vitamin D.

Written by Meds Global Health Clinical Team · Clinically reviewed by Dr Muhammad Suffyan, MB BS, Founder & Clinical Director · Last reviewed · How we review

What it means

Sun safety means protecting your skin and eyes from too much ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun (and sunbeds), which damages skin, while balancing the small amount of sunlight the body uses to make vitamin D.

Why it matters

Overexposure to UV is the main preventable cause of skin cancer, including melanoma, and causes sunburn and premature skin ageing. Sunbeds add to the risk. Simple protection greatly reduces harm.

Practical tips

How to make it work

  • Spend time in the shade, especially between 11am and 3pm in the UK from March to October.
  • Cover up with clothing, a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses.
  • Use sunscreen of at least SPF 30 with high (4 or 5 star) UVA protection, applied generously and reapplied regularly.
  • Take extra care with babies and children, and keep young babies out of direct strong sun.
  • Never use sunbeds.
  • Get to know your skin and see a doctor about any new or changing mole or patch.

Good to know. Sunscreen should be used alongside shade and clothing, not instead of them, and reapplied after swimming or sweating. If you cover up or avoid the sun, consider a vitamin D supplement, especially in autumn and winter.

Answers

Sun Safety: frequently asked questions

Do I still need sun protection in the UK?

Yes. From late March to October, UK sunlight can be strong enough to damage skin, especially in the middle of the day. Shade, clothing and sunscreen all help protect you.

If I avoid the sun, will I lack vitamin D?

The body makes vitamin D from sunlight, so people who cover up or stay out of the sun may need a supplement, particularly in autumn and winter when UK sunlight is too weak to make enough.

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Education and reference only. This is general UK health guidance, not personal medical or dietitian advice. If you have a health condition or specific needs, check with your GP, pharmacist or a registered professional before making big changes.

Sources

Where this is drawn from

  • NHS — Live Well & Start for Life
  • UK Chief Medical Officers’ guidance
  • British Dietetic Association (BDA)

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