I’m a person cursed/blessed with a very fair complexion. While my friends were going a little darker for afternoons at the beach, it took me all season to notice some new freckles on my forearms. Surprisingly, however, I’ve still educated myself a lot about those occasional situations when you think you don’t need sunscreen but you really (really) do.
As we soon say goodbye to low UV indexes and head for a few months of sweaty, hot days, here’s a reminder of the daily activities that still require sun protection.
You’re Behind the Wheel
Risk: High
Glass blocks most (not all!) UVB rays. So you may not get sunburned through a window, but UVA rays can get in, which are responsible for aging and skin cancer. If you drive frequently or for long periods of time (like that Byron Bay road trip you’re planning), be sure to apply sunscreen to any exposed areas.
You’re on a Plane
Risk: Low
It’s possible! Really! As with cars, airplane windows do a pretty good job of blocking most UVB rays, but for anyone sitting in a window seat (for hours on end, I might note), those UVA rays can still get through. Clouds, which are common at high altitudes, can also reflect UV rays and increase sun damage. Draw the blinds when enjoying the view, and make sure to wear sunscreen before and during your flight.
You Work in an Office
Risk: Low
When working indoors or in an office, the risk of sun exposure is low, but if your desk happens to be near a window, you might want to think again! Sun protection is required for any form of direct sunlight; clothing may be sufficient in this case, but applying a layer of sunscreen to your face, shoulders, arms, and hands can prevent the risk of long-term sun damage (sun spots, hyperpigmentation, wrinkles, etc.).
You “Only Went Out for 5 Minutes”
Risk: Moderate
It’s not the end of the world if you forget to apply sunscreen on those occasional quick outings (on the way to work, a quick trip to the post office, while waiting in line for a bagel for lunch), but if you do it every day, it’s accumulating sun damage. Remember, at the end of the year, you have to add up all those 5-minute trips… that’s time spent in the sun. It’s better to be safe than sorry.
They stand under a parasol
Risk: Moderate
If you plan to camp for several hours, the shade of an umbrella (no matter how cute, colorful or frilly) may not provide enough protection. While they protect against direct UV radiation, they don’t block all scattered and diffused rays, so skin can still get sunburned. It’s important to combine multiple methods of sun protection, rather than relying on just one. So consider SPF and shade as well as sunglasses, hats and protective clothing.
It’s cloudy today
Risk: High
A myth! A mistake! A lie! UV rays penetrate directly through the clouds to your sensitive skin. Therefore, being outdoors on a cloudy day without broad-spectrum protection is extremely dangerous. Always check the UV index before going out. The most accurate indicator is 3 or more, and you should be equipped with a healthy layer of SPF 50.
It’s after 5 p.m.
Risk: Low
The sun’s rays are strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. After that, the risk of sunburn (UVB rays) decreases with each additional hour. As sunset approaches, the sun appears dimmer, but the UVA rays maintain their intensity as long as there is daylight. Where you live also affects the intensity of the sunlight. So if you look at an Australian summer, we can still be cold at any time of the day.
