This is very timely given that UV levels in UK are around 5 at midday as we head into spring / summer when UV8 is possible and holidaying abroad can see UV13 to 15. Enough to cause serious permanent skin damage.

Hat, suncream, cover up, avoid strong sun 11.00 am to 3.00pm especially if you have fair skin, blue or green eyes, blonde or red hair. Don't forget sunglasses as eyes can be damaged too leading to cataracts in old age. Take especial care of children. Small babies should not be out in the sun. 

But go out and enjoy the good weather just keep safe.

If this comes across as nannying it is because I have incurable advanced metastatic Squamous Cell Carcinoma from over exposure to UV sunlight.

Ed

Hi Ed

You've made a good point about UV levels! Many people don't realise that UV levels can be just as high, if not higher, in early Spring than they are in July and August! Lots of things can lead to increased UV levels and the risk of sunburn, so we shouldn't assume we're less at risk just because it's a Friday in April. 

Sunglasses are a good tip as well. UV radiation can cause lots of issues to eye health, so keeping a good pair of sunnies handy is important. 

Thanks for sharing your story Ed. Hope that you're able to get out and safely enjoy some of this lovely Spring weather. 

Best wishes, 
Jenn
Cancer Chat moderator 

Hi. This may seem a daft question! I prefer sitting in my west facing conservatory to.the garden for various reasons.  The sun pours in after 11.00 a.m.  Am I still at risk behind glass, or indeed at more risk?  Had not given it a thought before! 

Yes, sadly we are at risk when sitting near glass as UV penetrates through glass. Quite a few patients with melanoma on their right arm is due to driving, particularly if they drive for their occupation. So it's important to cover up or wear sunscreen if sitting in your conservatory or in a car.

Angie (Stage 3 melanoma patient since 2009)

Thanks Angie for that advice.  Much appreciated and will be making changes! 

Hello Jan70

What a great question! And I'm sure that one that lots of people will not have considered or thought about previously. It is one question, though, that features in our website article "13 myths about sun safety debunked". 

As AngieT has rightly already said, UVA rays, which penetrate deeper into the skin, can pass through glass. So if you spend lots of time doing sitting in a conservatory when the sun is strong, then long-term you might be at risk of skin damage from UVA rays.

It's good to be mindful about these things so that we can try to ensure we remain safe in the sun!

Best wishes, 
Jenn
Cancer Chat moderator