Dr Bindi Gaglani
Consultant Dermatologist, British Skin Foundation spokesperson
UV damage happens every day, even in the UK. Protecting your skin isn’t just for holidays — it’s a daily essential.
As summer arrives and we spend more time outdoors, protecting our skin is essential.
Daily sun protection matters
Ultraviolet (UV) radiation is the leading cause of premature ageing and a major contributor to skin cancer through DNA damage, which can also result from tanning. This damage occurs even on overcast days, making daily sun protection essential in the UK and abroad.
Sunscreen must be used properly to be effective. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen that protects against UVA and UVB with SPF 50 or higher and a 5-star UVA rating. It should be applied in a thick, generous layer to exposed skin. Use the ‘teaspoon rule’; one teaspoon for the face and neck, one for each arm, two for the torso and one each for the thighs and lower legs.
Most people apply too little and receive significantly less protection than the SPF on the label. Sunscreen should be applied 30 minutes before going outdoors and reapplied every two hours, after swimming or sweating.
When it comes to formulation, the best sunscreen is one you’ll actually use. Creams and lotions provide reliable, even coverage, while sprays can be convenient but may not give consistent protection.
Sticks are helpful for smaller areas, like the face and lips. For sensitive skin, mineral sunscreens containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide may be better tolerated. Tinted sunscreens are often preferred by people with melasma or sun-induced pigmentation.
Don’t forget commonly overlooked areas such as the ears, neck, scalp and tops of the feet.
Most people apply too little and receive significantly less protection than the SPF on the label
Think beyond sunscreen
In line with BSF’s “More, More, More” campaign, it’s crucial to use more sunscreen, wear more protective clothing and seek more shade.
This includes wearing UV-protective clothing, tightly woven fabrics, long sleeves and wide-brimmed hats, which provide an effective physical barrier against harmful radiation. UV-protective sunglasses help shield the eyes, while seeking shade and limiting exposure between 11 am and 3 pm is recommended.
By following these measures, you can protect your skin now and for the future.
