Happy Sun, Happy Skin

Clear, evidence-based skincare guidance for real life and real skin.

Understanding the Link Between UV and Skin Health

Sunlight is a gift - but smart sun habits help protect that gift
We're encouraged to get outside - for movement, mood, fresh air, and family time. But sunlight comes with UV rays, and while a little does us good, too much can damage the skin in ways we don’t always see straight away.

Some sources say a UV Index of 1–2 is “safe”, but what does that actually mean? Safe from what? Sunburn? DNA damage? Wrinkles?

This leaflet clears up the confusion with expert-backed facts. Because when it comes to skin health - for babies, teens, or grown-ups - clear, confident knowledge is better than guesswork.

Understanding the UV Index

The UV Index measures the strength of UVB rays - the ones that cause sunburn and immediate DNA damage linked to skin cancer. It's used to assess your risk of burning on any given day.

But there's another kind of UV: UVA. It's not included in the UV Index, but it's present all year round, even at low UV levels. UVA penetrates deeper, contributing to:

  • Premature skin ageing

  • Long-term DNA damage

  • Certain skin cancers

So even when the UV Index is low, daily protection - especially against UVA - can help maintain healthy, resilient skin. This is particularly important for children, fair skin types, and anyone concerned about long-term skin ageing or damage:

How UV Damage Shows Up on the Skin

  • Fine lines and wrinkles – From UVA-driven collagen breakdown

  • Sagging skin – Loss of elastin and skin structure

  • Pigmentation & age spots – Uneven tone from repeated exposure

  • Dry, rough, or leathery texture – UV weakens the barrier

  • Sunburn - from UVB - redness, peeling, long-term DNA damage

  • Skin cancers – Changes in moles or new growths that don’t heal

  • Tan – From UVB - a tan may look healthy, but it’s actually a sign your skin cells are in distress. It’s your skin’s way of trying to protect itself after damage. Repeated exposure increases your lifetime risk of skin cancer and speeds up premature ageing.

UV effects accumulate over a lifetime, so protection is vital at every age.

Melanin (the pigment in our skin) offers some natural protection, but it does not prevent skin cancer or UV ageing. People with darker skin tones can and do get skin cancer, and it's often diagnosed later, when it's harder to treat. Everyone benefits from sun protection.

Expert Tips for Sun Protection

  • Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen – SPF 30+ with UVA 4 or 5 stars. Reapply every 2 hours, or after swimming or sweating.

  • Wear protective clothing – Long sleeves, trousers, and wide-brimmed hats offer physical protection.

  • Choose UV-blocking sunglasses – Look for UV400 lenses to shield your eyes and delicate eye-area skin.

  • Seek shade between 11am–3pm – When UV is strongest.

  • Avoid sunbeds – They increase the risk of premature ageing and skin cancer.

  • Check your skin regularly – Look out for new or changing moles, marks, or patches. Seek medical advice promptly if you notice anything unusual.

👉 Flare-ups after sun exposure? You’re not alone. From rosacea to pigmentation, some skin types are more reactive to UV. Find flare-up check lists here to explore possible causes and protect your skin better.

Should you ever skip sunscreen to get enough vitamin D?

It’s one of the most confusing questions in skin health. On the one hand, we’re told to protect our skin from UV rays. On the other, we need sunlight to make vitamin D - and many of us are low.

Click here to explore what the experts say about the sun protection dilemma, how your body makes vitamin D, and what your real-life options are.

Need more advice?

For mole checks or sun damage concerns, speak to your GP or an in-person or online dermatology service.

Is There Public National Guidance on the Effect of UV Radiation on Skin Health?

Yes. The NHS provides a wealth of information on the damaging effects of UV radiation, and other national organisations and charities have echoed and expanded on this guidance.

There is public-facing messaging that treats skin health as a benefit of UV protection. The evidence exists - and, it has been translated into national campaigns and everyday advice.

Trusted Sources (Not a Complete Catalogue)

Here are a few official UK resources offering trusted advice on sun safety and skin protection:

Sunscreen and Sun Safety – NHS
www.nhs.uk/sunscreen
Practical advice on sunscreen use, protecting children's skin, and when to seek medical help.

Sun Safety – Cancer Research UK
www.cancerresearchuk.org/sun-safety
Evidence-based tips on sun protection, risk reduction, and checking your skin.

The UV Index – DEFRA (UK Government)
www.uk-air.defra.gov.uk/uv-index
The UK Government considers a UV Index of 1–2 as low risk for sunburn. However, UVA rays are still present and can contribute to premature ageing and long-term skin changes.

Sun Protection Fact Sheet – British Association of Dermatologists
www.skinhealthinfo.org.uk
Expert-led guide to sunscreen ingredients, UVA ratings, and best practices.

Sun Safety at Work – Health and Safety Executive (HSE)
www.hse.gov.uk/sunprotect
Guidance for outdoor workers and employers on managing sun exposure safely.Explore these expert-backed links for further information:

The Skin Well™
A grassroots, evidence-aware initiative supporting public skin education.
👉 @theskinwell_

Disclaimer

Whilst every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, the information in this leaflet is for educational purposes only and should not replace professional advice. This resource is informed by current evidence, clinical observation, and emerging research in skin health. Where early or exploratory studies are referenced, this reflects ongoing scientific interest - not established public health guidance. I include these insights to raise awareness, not to make health claims. If in doubt, please consult a qualified healthcare professional.

If you spot an omission or believe any of the information is inaccurate, please get in touch. I’ll review it and make updates where appropriate

Version: [March / 2025]

© 2025 Jacqui de Jager | The Skin Well™ & The Happy Skin Clinic®
All rights reserved. This leaflet is for personal use and education only. It may not be reproduced, distributed, or adapted without written permission.