Do you want to maximise your sun protection? Here’s everything you need to know about UV Index number to choose the right sunblock.
We all know the damaging effects of the UV rays on our skin. From sunburn and tanning to premature ageing and skin cancer, long-term exposure to UV rays can take a heavy toll on your skin. Therefore, it is vital to protect your skin and minimise UV-induced skin damage. While sunscreen is the most important tool in your sun protection arsenal, choosing the right one is critical. If you want to maximise sun protection, you need to factor in the UV index number while picking your sunblock. But what is the UV index, and why do you need to understand it?
What is the UV index?
The UV index refers to a scale used to determine the intensity of the UV rays at a particular time and place. A worldwide indicator of UV exposure from the sun, the UV index can help determine safe sun exposure periods. The UV index scale is recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO). It ranges from 0 to 11+, with higher numbers denoting a higher risk of sun-related skin damage. The amount of UV exposure varies day by day and from region to region because it depends on factors including location, weather, and season. Throughout the day, the UV index varies, reaching its highest point around midday and dropping gradually as the day comes to an end.
Why do you need to consider the UV index while choosing a sunblock?
The risk of sunburns, photoaging, and UV-induced skin conditions, including melanoma, basal cell carcinoma, and squamous cell carcinoma, rises with a higher UV index. Moreover, damage happens more quickly when the UV index is high. Here’s how understanding the UV index can help maximise sun protection:
- Keep the wrinkles and fine lines away
Excess UV exposure can accelerate the ageing process and cause dark spots, fine lines and wrinkles. With the help of the UV index, you can curate an efficient sun protection routine to minimise the damage.
- Minimise the risk of skin cancer
Since the UV index can help you determine when it is safe to step out, it can help you take the proper precautions to reduce the risk of skin cancer.
- Prevent sunburn and tanning
UV index is an excellent tool to prevent sun tanning and sunburn. It can help you determine when and what type of sunblock you need to apply to shield your skin from UV damage.
How to understand the UV index to choose the right sunblock?
Here’s how you can use the UV index tool to pick the right sunblock for maximum sun protection:
- Low UV index (0-2)
- Moderate UV Index (3-5)
If the UV index number falls between three and five, you need to take routine UV protection measures to minimise sun damage. Use a sunscreen with a broad spectrum SPF of 30. Apply the product generously and don’t forget to reapply it every two hours. When the sun is at its brightest, around midday, seek shade
- High UV Index (6-7)
Since you are highly susceptible to sun damage if the UV index is high, you need to practise diligent sun protection to keep sunburn at bay. Apply a broad-spectrum sunblock and wear protective clothing and accessories to shield your skin.
- Very High UV index (8-10)
If the UV index number falls between eight and ten, unprotected skin is highly susceptible to burns. Therefore, very high sun protection is required. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with 50+ SPF for maximum sun protection. It is also advisable to avoid outdoor activities during peak hours.
- Extreme UV index (11+)
If the UV index fails at the extreme limit, unprotected skin can burn within minutes. Therefore, it is recommended to avoid sun exposure if possible. If stepping out, slather on a broad-spectrum sunscreen and wear protective clothing.
If you want to keep your skin protected from the harmful effects of UV damage, you must understand and utilise the UV index. It can help you pick the right sunblock for maximum sun protection. If you are looking for an effective sunblock that blocks UVA and UVB rays and keeps your skin healthy and hydrated, you must try DrG Sun Block SPF 50.