We aren’t exactly known for warm weather here in Northern Ireland, but that doesn’t mean you should neglect sun protection.
Despite sun cream being something we associate with holidays abroad in sunnier climates, we should be using it here regularly, whether the weather is sunny or cloudy.
This is because it’s not just the weather or the temperature that dictates when you should wear sun cream, it all really comes down to the UV index.
This indicates the strength of ultraviolet (UV) radiation on any given day, which starts at zero and goes up to 20, however, it rarely exceeds eight throughout the UK.
Experts recommend wearing sun cream whenever the UV index is three or over, which is common during the summer months, but possible even as late as October.
How often is sun cream needed in Northern Ireland?
A map from Which pinpoints the number of days the UV index reached three or above in different regions of the UK in 2019.
This indicates how many days in the year we should each be using sun cream to avoid harmful UV rays which can lead to premature skin aging and even skin cancer.
Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in Northern Ireland with the incidences of both non-melanoma and malignant melanoma increasing recently.
The map shows that in 2019, Belfast had 143 days where the UV index reached three or above.
This is compared to 139 days in Glasgow, 157 days in London, and 182 days in Cornwall.
So, if you’ll be outside for most of the day, it’s important to check the UV index and cover up or use sun cream, especially on those parts of you that are exposed to the sun the most including your face, ears, and shoulders.
However, many recommend wearing an SPF of 15 or higher every day as part of our normal skincare routine.
You can find a list of some of the most popular daily moisturisers with built in SPF here.
For the latest breaking news straight to your inbox, sign up for our newsletter here.
