Sun Safety in the UK: SPF, Skin Checks, and What Your Pharmacist Can Help With

Why Sun Safety Matters in the UK (Even on Cloudy Days)

Many people in the UK assume sunscreen is only necessary on holiday or on the hottest summer days. In fact, UV radiation can damage skin even when it's overcast. UV levels can be moderate to high in the UK from March through to October — well beyond the peak summer months.

Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the UK. Cancer Research UK reports more than 16,000 new melanoma cases diagnosed annually. The good news is that most skin cancers, including melanoma, are highly preventable with consistent sun protection habits.

How to Choose and Use Sunscreen Correctly

The NHS recommends:

• SPF 30 or higher to protect against UVB rays
• At least 4 stars (on the UVA rating) to protect against UVA rays
• Apply generously 15–30 minutes before going out and reapply every 2 hours, or after swimming or sweating
• Don't forget the tops of your feet, ears, the back of your neck, and your scalp if you have thinning hair

Your pharmacist can recommend a sunscreen suitable for your skin type — including options for sensitive skin, children, and those with conditions like rosacea or eczema.

The ABCDE Guide to Checking Your Moles

Use the ABCDE method from Cancer Research UK to check your moles regularly:

• Asymmetry — one half doesn't match the other
• Border — irregular, ragged, notched, or blurred edges
• Colour — uneven shading or multiple colours within the same mole
• Diameter — larger than 6mm (about the size of a pencil eraser)
• Evolving — any mole that is changing in size, shape, colour, or starts to bleed

If you notice any of these changes, see your GP promptly. Early detection is key — melanoma caught at stage 1 has over a 95% survival rate.

Who Is Most at Risk of Skin Cancer?

While anyone can develop skin cancer, certain factors increase risk:

• Fair skin, light hair, or freckles
• A personal or family history of skin cancer
• A history of sunburn, especially in childhood
• Lots of moles or unusual moles
• Working outdoors or spending significant time in the sun

Beyond Sunscreen: Hats, Shade, and Timing Your Time Outdoors

Sunscreen is essential but it's not the whole picture. The NHS also recommends:

• Seek shade between 11am and 3pm when UV radiation is strongest
• Wear a wide-brimmed hat to protect your face, ears, and neck
• Wear UV-protective sunglasses (look for CE mark and UV400 protection)
• Cover up with lightweight clothing with a close weave

How Your Pharmacist Can Help

Your pharmacist can recommend the right SPF product for your skin type, advise on treating mild sunburn, and help you understand whether any medicines you take could make you more sensitive to UV light (photosensitivity). If you're concerned about a mole or skin change, a pharmacist can advise on whether and how urgently you should see a GP.