Are you wearing sunscreen in all the recent heat?
Posted by travelingwhilestupid@reddit | AskUK | View on Reddit | 380 comments
Are you wearing sunscreen in all the recent heat? I'm curious about the British attitudes towards sunscreen on a hot day.
ResplendentBear@reddit
The sun isn't more powerful on hotter days. (It's time of year, distance from the equator and atmospheric conditions that matter).
It's important because our hottest days tend to be in July, but the sun is stronger now than in late July, which catches people out.
I try and wear some SPF if I'm going to be outside during the middle of the day from April onwards.
travelingwhilestupid@reddit (OP)
surely the strength of the sun depends on how far you are from the summer solstice (21 June)? so the sun would be roughly the same now as in late July?
ResplendentBear@reddit
Right now we're 25 days away from the summer solstice, in late July (assuming it starts on the 23rd) you'd be minimum 32 days away.
So it depends on your definition of roughly.
iPerilous@reddit
I wear SPF 50 on my face all year round. If I am spending more than an hour in the sun (running, gardening, etc.) then I will apply SPF 50 on any exposed areas during the summer.
travelingwhilestupid@reddit (OP)
in winter?
iPerilous@reddit
Yes, UVA rays are still there during the winter. Of course if you are inside all day in the winter then SPF won't be required.
Interesting_Fish309@reddit
I didn't and now for 2 days I've been ill. Definitely won't be forgetting it again 😩
travelingwhilestupid@reddit (OP)
ill? what illness did you get?
Interesting_Fish309@reddit
Heat exhaustion. Too much sun can cause sickness and diarrhea and tummy cramps. I got sunburnt doing the garden for about 2 hours and forgot sun cream. You can get sun stroke and need immediate medical attention too. My partner just got back from work now. He was talking to me and just passed out. I woke him up and he didnt know what happened. Hes worked init all day. Its very dangerous this sun. Our country is not used to such high temperatures. People can die from too much sun
flyingfresian@reddit
My daily moisturiser has factor 50 built in, but I am from the north of Scotland and so am genetically that lovely blue-tinged white and don't tan at all. My partner's parents both had to have skin cancers removed in the last couple of years, so I'm really vigilent about it.
I wear sunscreen on my arms/neck if I'm going to be outside for more than about 15 minutes in the summer, but due to my peely-wallyness that's not often a problem. Two years ago I went to a local outdoor event and took my spray-on factor 50 (marketed for kids, but I have no shame) and didn't burn despite being outdoors in 25C+ for six hours, but I reapplied pretty often. Cancer isn't something to fuck about with, and when you go blue-red-blue rather than a lovely brown you're as well to be safe.
travelingwhilestupid@reddit (OP)
explain "didn't burn despite being outdoors in 25C+ for six hours". would you be more careful when the temperature is over 30C?
flyingfresian@reddit
What isn't clear? I was outside, it was hot, I used suncream.
travelingwhilestupid@reddit (OP)
Simple question. If it's hotter, do you use more caution? (more sunscreen, reapply more frequently, etc)
flyingfresian@reddit
Its not really about heat for me, it's about exposure to direct sunlight. I probably wouldn't bother on a day of say 19C but with that temperature I'd not be in short sleeves so it wouldn't matter much. On a short sleeve/outside in sunlight day I would use sunscreen. Tbf it's rare I do that!
Bloodybuses@reddit
Yes SPF 50!
travelingwhilestupid@reddit (OP)
Specifically because it's a hot day? Or you do this every day of summer?
Pick_Up_Autist@reddit
Spamming this on every comment without reading the many replies explaining it's not about the heat is making this thread the least readable mess ever.
travelingwhilestupid@reddit (OP)
No it's not, don't be silly.
StaticUsernamesSuck@reddit
Idk why you're getting downvoted except that it isn't super obvious in your original post what you were going for - I get it but it seems most people don't.
I would add an edit:
travelingwhilestupid@reddit (OP)
Yeah but that would give up the game. The whole point is to see if people figure this out.
StaticUsernamesSuck@reddit
Oh, well then you're being a bit of a douchey weirdo, nvm
Necessary-Mess-8877@reddit
Its not related to temperature. Ive had some bad sunburn while skiing. You need to be checking the UV index. Anything 3 or above you should be using suncream
travelingwhilestupid@reddit (OP)
Yeah, that's the point of this thread. In London, I've seen signs outside a school that say "Due to the heat on Monday, children must wear suncream." And the general literacy is incredibly low. I'm pleasantly surprised that the Reddit mob figured it out today.
AncientImprovement56@reddit
The need for suncream isn't directly linked to the amount of heat. It's linked to the strength of the sun (which admittedly does also affect the temperature) and the amount of time you're spending in the sun.
Given that, yesterday, I spent as little time outside as possible, there was no particular need for suncream.
The real "danger" situations for sunburn are when it's sunny but not actually that hot - for example because there's a strong northerly breeze.
jaymatthewbee@reddit
So many people think it’s the high temperature that burns you. I often used to get sunburn in May when it wasn’t that hot.
chazysciota@reddit
If you know more than 2 people who believe that, then you really should examine your whole life situation because you're surrounded by legit morons.
Super-Surround-4347@reddit
I got sunburnt in the shade. Apparently UV reflects off of water 😭
StaticUsernamesSuck@reddit
It does - and ice! Snowy regions are incredibly bad for sunburn in summer because you get UV directly and reflecting off all the snow and ice.
travelingwhilestupid@reddit (OP)
if you can see, there's light. if there's light, there's UV. obviously directly sunlight is the worst, followed by reflection off water/snow.
Super-Surround-4347@reddit
A lesson learned the hard way!
travelingwhilestupid@reddit (OP)
a science experiment!
crankyandhangry@reddit
I learned recently that sunburn is actually a radiation burn. Your cells are dying of radiation exposure. I don't know why that makes the difference but it's scared me into wearing my suncream.
jaymatthewbee@reddit
When I was younger I used to like trying to get a nice tan, now whenever it’s sunny I prefer to stay in the shade. I try to apply suncream but often miss somewhere, like the bit of neck behind my ears.
Normal-Height-8577@reddit
My gran used to build up a tan just by gardening that lasted her nearly the whole year round - she'd gradually turn nut brown over the spring, absolutely luxuriate in the summer sun, and then over the winter, slowly get whiter again. She never got a sunburn until towards the end of her life, when she wasn't able to do as much gardening as before. Very useful genes!
NekoFever@reddit
Ha, they hammer that fact into you on first aid courses.
mumwifealcoholic@reddit
Some of the worst sun burns I've seen were in winter snow:)
WeDoingThisAgainRWe@reddit
Snow and water are nightmares for reflecting light. So many people don’t seem to realise it though. It should be pushed more.
New_Pop_8911@reddit
I was going to comment something similar. At this time of year most people should be wearing at least some on their face regardless of temperature as it's the UV that does the damage rather than the heat.
danddersson@reddit
My daily face moisturiser has factor 20 'built in'.
On sunny days, factor 40-50 goes on.
New_Pop_8911@reddit
I tend to wear factor 30 and reapply throughout the day, mainly because I don't like the feel of most 40/50s. The Ultra Sun factor 50 is exceptionally good but its price reflects this lol. I don't burn easily but my grandfather had about ten cancerous lumps cut out of his face over the last 15 years of his life and I don't want that!
danddersson@reddit
Yes, some 50's are a hard work, and I also used Ulrra Sun. I think Nivea may have changed their formula, as their 50 is pretty good now. I use that, and also Decathlon's own, which is a similar consistency and cheaper. And both seem to work
Final_Flounder9849@reddit
It’s amazing how things like that can focus the mind on sun protection. I know too many guys who’ve had cancers on their scalp and I’m somewhat streamlined on mine so there’s bigger all there to protect it unless I slop on the SPF or use a UV blocking umbrella.
New_Pop_8911@reddit
I'm a woman and have plenty of hair but I have a clear spray that I do put on my scalp if in going to be in the sun without a hat (fairly limited scenarios but I do like a water park on holiday)
Dutch_Slim@reddit
Today is going to be a nightmare for that here. Breeze is SO cool but the sun is beating down, you just don’t really notice it.
travelingwhilestupid@reddit (OP)
high of 27°C? days of 23 and overcast are worse. warm enough that you can wear shorts and short sleeves, cool enough that you sit out in the park all day
Dutch_Slim@reddit
23 here now. Full on sun, but definitely cool enough to sit out in all day.
ghodsgift@reddit
You still need it indoors, if you sit near a window as UV rays still penetrate.
I dont bother with facial moisturisers with an SPF factored in as theyre a waste of money. You're supposed to re-apply sun screen every few hours, and folk are unlikely to do so with a moisturiser with SPF.
You're better off buying your regular moisturiser and a separate sunscreen.
Important_Elk4295@reddit
Agree with almost all of it, except I wear sunscreen even indoor, don't underestimate the UV from the window when you are sitting by it
StaticUsernamesSuck@reddit
It seems like OP knows that, and the intended point of this post is basically trying to gauge whether most people actually correctly use suncream this way, or whether there is a common perceptions that the heat matters.
I_will_never_reply@reddit
Ironically, it's so hot that no one can really bear being in direct sunlight for more than a few minutes and then they seek shelter. If it were 22 and sunny people would lay outside all day and get lobstered
rabid-fox@reddit
If you spend a lot of time near windows you should regardless of going outside
travelingwhilestupid@reddit (OP)
!answer
BarryIslandIdiot@reddit
When i lived in Canada, there were a lot of forest fires, so lityle UV light. The temperature was getting above 40c, but i never got sunburned.
travelingwhilestupid@reddit (OP)
Yeah, that's what I'm asking, indirectly. You passed.
GloomySwitch6297@reddit
not british, 30'C is perfect. stopped using sunscream when I was like 20-25 (many years ago)
jaymatthewbee@reddit
Temperature has nothing to do with whether you can burn or not. UV levels on a 15c day in late May/June are higher than they are on a 30c in August.
GloomySwitch6297@reddit
even better on high altitudes even with snow around (best reflection/coverage)
Rocinante23@reddit
Yes. You should be wearing SPF most days.
banwe11@reddit
And washing it off regularly and reapplying
ellezol@reddit
i've literally never heard of that in my life. sure reapply it, but washing it off??
banwe11@reddit
Sun cream works by using organic molecules to absorb UV light in place of the molecules in your skin. When this happens, the molecules break down into a range of photoproducts including radicals which could be chemically damaging for the body. So ideally it's best to remove these photoproducts regularly to stop them building up.
ellezol@reddit
so how often do you personally wash off your sun cream throughout the day? i can't see that being practical in most people's lives
banwe11@reddit
I don't actually wear suncream every day. I put it on if I am going out on a particularly sunny day and then wash it off when I am done. Otherwise I avoid using suncream altogether and rely on shade and long sleeves etc.
travelingwhilestupid@reddit (OP)
I'm not sure all that washing is even healthy for skin. definitely be careful about how you dry the skin if you're washing this regularly.
crazycraven@reddit
Changed my daily moisturizer to one with SPF protection about a decade ago. Simple small change.
Affectionate_Day7543@reddit
Spf 50 on my face every day regardless. Rest of my body if I’m going to be outside for more than 5 mins
travelingwhilestupid@reddit (OP)
even in winter?
Affectionate_Day7543@reddit
Yup. Very much a ginger
white_hart_2@reddit
Are you doing some sort of research, because you keep posting this (or very similar) text...
" Specifically because it's a hot day? Or you do this every day of summer? "
???
It's pretty widely understood that it doesn't need to be hot to get burned as it's down to UV, not temperature.
jaymatthewbee@reddit
I don’t think it’s widely understood. I often hear people saying things like ‘it’s not hot enough in the UK to need suncream’
white_hart_2@reddit
Then - as with a fair number of things - that's on the individual.
There's plenty of information out there, and plenty of media "announcements" alerting people.
travelingwhilestupid@reddit (OP)
Ah! You're on to me!
VarangianWRLD@reddit
If I left the house I would
I'm a bit skeptical about the trend of people wearing sunscreen everyday though.
A cold rainy overcast day in October? I don't get it. But I wish people well.
travelingwhilestupid@reddit (OP)
What does the impact of the cold have on sun burn?
Dry_Extension_9850@reddit
You’re more likely to burn on cooler and windy days as you don’t realised you are still be blasted with UV rays.
VarangianWRLD@reddit
As I said, I wish you well and I hope the excess protection keeps you healthy and looking younger if that's what you're going for.
I smell something fishy from a mix of big sunscreen and the cult of youth/anti natural aging.
What we can both take from this, is that it makes sense to invest in sunscreen firms because it is a growing trend!
Dry_Extension_9850@reddit
I’m not doing it to look younger, I’m doing it so I get to grow older, I’m a moley and freckly person so have higher risk.
Whilst I do think the beauty industry prays on people insecurities about aging at least this trend has to potential to reduce incidence of skin cancer.
VarangianWRLD@reddit
Only time I've been burnt in October is when I was away
WBCSMFer@reddit
Chronic ginger here - I got sunstroke on a rainy October day once.
VarangianWRLD@reddit
Suppose the real question is, can you do it on a cold rainy night in Stoke?
WBCSMFer@reddit
No question in my mind that I have it in my locker.
theotherquantumjim@reddit
Presumably if it’s overcast the UV index is significantly lower?
Dry_Extension_9850@reddit
You are still exposed to UV rays even if it’s cloudy. Plus, I see putting sun cream on as a “health habit”, I do it everyday so I don’t forget. Since wearing spf on my face everyday I have noticed a dramatic difference in my skin.
HoundParty3218@reddit
I wear a hat when I go out and I've been using suncream every day since the UV index hit 1.
I haven't seen any improvement to my skin but I also haven't been burnt, unlike my husband who apparently keeps forgetting that he's a balding ginger.
Plane-Being1274@reddit
I’m ginger so I need it when I’m entering the fridge
theotherquantumjim@reddit
Same. I put sunblock on before turning the big light on of an evening
okwhateveryouwin8@reddit
You use the big light in your house? Interesting...
bife_de_lomo@reddit
Mine only comes on when I've lost something!
okwhateveryouwin8@reddit
Yep, it is the "right, where is it?" Spotlight
Cold-Kaleidoscope974@reddit
My ex is so ginger the wind burnt him once
plant-strong@reddit
I wear spf every day and you should too
travelingwhilestupid@reddit (OP)
in winter?
plant-strong@reddit
It’s just part of my skincare routine. UV rays exist all year round
travelingwhilestupid@reddit (OP)
In much lower quantities. It's a question of quantity.
plant-strong@reddit
Yeah and I don't put as great a quantity of spf on in the winter. But I do put a little bit on every single day.
Friendly_External345@reddit
Nope, never used it.
older-strongr-hotte@reddit
I wear suncream every day !
Civil-Koala-8899@reddit
When did we started calling it sunscreen? I thought suncream was the British term
DiscoDoberman@reddit
It's no longer just those creams.
There are liquids, aerosols, foams, mineral based formulas that are like chalk stuff you put on your face.
Dry_Extension_9850@reddit
The person asking could be American maybe? I never hear people call it sunscreen here.
Nezben@reddit
Another shitty Americanism has entered our shores.
terryjuicelawson@reddit
"Shitty" is an Americanism...
baciahai@reddit
Why shitty?
strong-sandwich-okay@reddit
It's clearer what it does, so it makes sense that it's been adopted.
DiscoDoberman@reddit
I wear sunscreen every day.
And if it's clear skies, then I also wear a wide brim hat and avoid being out in the sun.
The only difference at this time of year is you're more likely to sweat, even subtly, so if you're spending time outdoors - top up your sunscreen 5 mins before you go. And take it with you on trips so you can top up again.
Mendel247@reddit
If UV is low, I just apply some to my face in the morning. If it's high I apply it anywhere that's exposed. I probably don't reapply it enough, but I try to remember. And I have UV filtering glasses and sunglasses because I lived in Spain for a decade and you don't FAFO with the sun in Spain
travelingwhilestupid@reddit (OP)
I've seen British tourists in Spain... they FAFO
Mendel247@reddit
I wasn't a tourist
Ill-Inevitable980@reddit
I'm a bloke and very tanned. I get asked if I'm mixed race a lot on holiday.
I wear a matte suncream on my face whenever the UV index is particularly high. I wore some yesterday just to walk up to the shop and back, and then it's on in case I'm in and out the house.
I only bother with lathering up my arms etc if I plan to be outside and in the sun on purpose.
JBSven@reddit
SPF 50 every day son.
I'm a pasty white man. I don't like sunburn.
More specifically - I wear spf50 everyday of the year because of my moisturiser too ig
thebedsheetghost@reddit
I wear factor 50 every single day of the year on my face & then head to toe in summer. I’m serious about it, don’t want any skin damage!
ci_newman@reddit
I’m curious if you’ve ever been tested for VitaminD deficiency? We should be getting some sunlight daily without sun cream, this country has a huge VitD problem as it is without preventing your natural mechanism to produce it too.
Ambry@reddit
I always use face suncream, only don't do it on days qhere there's basically no UVA/UVB. I get bloodtests every few months due to a medication I'm on (which can also make you more likely to burn!) and no vitamin D issues.
thebedsheetghost@reddit
Yes I have, I take supplements even though I don’t have any symptoms of deficiency. I also avoid the sun at all costs, I have extremely pale skin that only burns & never tans so I won’t be changing my routine as I am in much more danger due to skin cancer risks!
Moment_13@reddit
I do the same as OP - SPF50 facial moisturizer always, and the suncream is slathered on whenever I'm outside with skin exposed (usually April-May as the weather heats up and cardigans have to come off).
I take a daily vitamin D supplement all year round.
katie-kaboom@reddit
Sunscreen is part of my everyday routine, so yes. That said, I'm trying to not actually go outside.
Anathemachiavellian@reddit
I wear suncream (on my face at least) 365 days a year and I think most millennial and younger women do the same. I do wonder if in a couple of decades we’re going to look a lot younger than men our age.
katie-kaboom@reddit
I'm an xennial and have worn sunscreen since my early 20s. It's really noticeable how much younger I look compared to my mother and other women in my family at the same age, or even my older sister, who didn't. (Also true for friends my age who do the same.)
Ambry@reddit
I now can't even imagine going outside in the day without at minimum face SPF! You can really see how badly the sun damages your skin in older people who bake in the sun with minimal SPF.
rachaelg666@reddit
Same! Never leave the house without sunscreen on my face, even in the depths of a grey murky winter.
terryjuicelawson@reddit
I just don't know how anyone could be bothered, and the feel of it on the face too.
Ambry@reddit
I habe to put moisturiser on every day anyway, the sunscreen I use has the texture of moisturiser so its basically the same.
rachaelg666@reddit
I mean it takes about 30 seconds to put on, it’s not too much effort when you’re doing a skincare routine anyway! I use a nice quality one so it doesn’t feel like anything, sinks in while I’m brushing my teeth then I don’t notice it again!
blozzerg@reddit
I remember being 16 (early 00s) and there was the generally accepted idea that sun damage ages you especially later on in life, but most people wanted to look good now so achieved that through getting a ‘healthy tan’.
Now I’m approaching 40 there’s definitely more people my age waking up to what happens and who are trying to undo 20 years of minor damage to prevent it getting worse, or who are only just taking steps before the signs of aging really start to lock in.
I’ve avoided the sun since I became a teenager and I still regularly get ID’d so imo it has been a success so far!
Johnlenham@reddit
I have been using factor 30 on my shaved head for a few years as it's a half way decent moisturizer but only in the past six months have I been using some specific spf50 face stuff (french orange brand that name escapes me)
I don't think my wife ever did and I can't imagine many other people I know do and we are millennials but I guess it just depends on the circles you run in
HipKittens@reddit
I’ve been hiding indoors all weekend and will cover up fully when needing to go outside. SPF50 on my face every day.
Own_Buy456@reddit
I'm also trying as much as I can not to go outside and apply the sunscreen when I need to
Dangerous_Bed2566@reddit
I wear sunscreen all year round. Factor 30 in winter and factor 50 the remaining year
Sad_Interaction_2933@reddit
It annoys me that people still confuse heat and UV. If it wasn’t this hot, it’d still be a time of year where the level of UV is higher. Whether it’s 20 or 30 outside. Even on an overcast day, which can just have the effect of scattering UV rather than blocking it.
travelingwhilestupid@reddit (OP)
that's exactly what this thread was actually asking.
Sad_Interaction_2933@reddit
I suspected so!
travelingwhilestupid@reddit (OP)
;)
Sasspishus@reddit
Yes, of course. Risk of sunburn isn't related to the heat from the sun, its about UV levels. We've got very high UV levels right now, so absolutely everyone should be wearing suncream. I wear suncream every day during spring, summer and autumn, but not really in winter since its too rainy where I live
travelingwhilestupid@reddit (OP)
>Risk of sunburn isn't related to the heat from the sun, its about UV leve
yeah, that's what I was testing.
Sasspishus@reddit
Ah ok, since you asked about normal vs hot summer days I thought you meant the opposite!
travelingwhilestupid@reddit (OP)
yeah.. I phrased it that way :)
Neddlings55@reddit
I wear it all year round.
travelingwhilestupid@reddit (OP)
The UK is one of the few places where may be healthier not to wear sunscreen in winter. (The Vitamin D argument is over-used... but in winter in northern Europe some sun exposure could be handy). I'm not a doctor.
Neddlings55@reddit
Incorrect. UVB rays still exist in winter. Certain conditions like snow can cause it to reflect back onto your face so you are getting twice the exposure.
You can lower protection to SPF 30, but not using any is not recommended.
travelingwhilestupid@reddit (OP)
UV is all about quantity. Like most things. If the UV index is less than 2, and you're inside most of the day like most Reddit users are, your UV exposure is minimal. You didn't reply to the Vitamin D point.
Neddlings55@reddit
Im outside for a good portion of the day, so my exposure is not minimal.
There are various sources of vitamin D. It doesnt come just from the sun. The sun is also too weak in the winter in the UK for the human body to synthesizes vitamin D, so avoiding sunblock is pointless. Eat well or use a supplement.
UVB is not typically present at high levels during winter, UVA is and is why protection is recommended. It can penetrate clouds and windows.
UVB damages, UVA ages.
travelingwhilestupid@reddit (OP)
Fair enough. Apparently UVB is what generates Vitamin D. Thanks, one of the best comments. I learned something. Have a great day.
Mr_Bumcrest@reddit
Are you at particular risk of skin issues?
Neddlings55@reddit
I burn easily, but thats about it.
Sun damage causes skin cancer and ages you. I reduce the risk by using SPF50 year round.
mysweetplums@reddit
Yes, but some sun cream is full of so much rubbish I question the health benefits of using, on occasion.
Dry_Yogurt2458@reddit
Stop believing Social media Rubbish. The benefits of sunscreen outweigh the "rubbish" that's in it, even in cloudy days.
travelingwhilestupid@reddit (OP)
There is some argument that the ultra high SPFs have diminishing returns. remember that SPF15 cuts UV down by a factor of 15, whereas jumping to SPF30 only halves it. so applying properly in advance and reapplying is much better.
the maths on this: say you spend 12 minutes in the sun with no sunscreen, then 4h in the sun with SPF60. that's the equivalent of just having SPF15 for the whole time.
some suncreams are absorbed by your body and potentially have some issues. I'm out of date on the science, but cancer is much worse.
Pristine_Winter_5513@reddit
There are some YouTubers who ridicule the use of suncream so it does make me question using it. Maybe I need to do more research.
Dry_Yogurt2458@reddit
don't use youtubers for research. Those youtubers are idiots and a public health liability.
Youtubers are not Dr's or scientists. These are the same people that told you Covid wasn't dangerous
Pristine_Winter_5513@reddit
Oh I know, I'm still using cream (always have) but when you see big channels like Carl Vernon and all the associated channels practically mocking suncream then it gets you doubting you know?
It's the exact same thing regarding vaccines, they all say all vaccines are poison and anyone who got the COVID jab is stupid, it's frustrating because you don't know where to turn or what to believe sometimes
Dry_Yogurt2458@reddit
Try not believing Youtubers/ That's a good start. Just go in with all information on social media is false until proven otherwise.
Carl Vernon has 0 qualifications, nada, none. he writes books from a personal experience perspective and anything else is done for money. His channel is monetised and the guy, along with many others, will say anything for clicks because he makes money from it.
toonlass91@reddit
I haven’t as I’ve spent a lot of it inside either at work or keep ing the dogs cool. If my area of vitiligo is covered by clothes I put sun cream on that but it’s been covered lately
Scottyrubix@reddit
I'm a stubborn stupid bloke so I go by the following rules much to my wifes dismay
1) Can't get burnt in your own country 2) Can't get burnt in a capital city
travelingwhilestupid@reddit (OP)
That's the strangest logic!
Dry_Extension_9850@reddit
I wear spf 50 on my face everyday, even in the depths of winter but on days the UV is high I will reapply regularly. If my body is in the sun I will also use spf 50, I find my skin is much more likely to burn in the first proper sun of the year so I was extra careful during this heatwave.
deletethewife@reddit
If I’m sitting out for a while yes, short walk maybe not. Considering I’ve had 4 vitamin d deficiency doctors told me to enjoy the sun for 20 minutes without sunscreen.
travelingwhilestupid@reddit (OP)
I am not a doctor, but 20 minutes in the middle of winter is completely different to exposure on a high UV day in summer.
deletethewife@reddit
You could be right, doctors don’t know everything.
Guest skin types comes to play as well, generally I never burn I just go brown.
know-need@reddit
I often wear no sunscreen in a heatwave because I am avoiding the sun like the plague and staying in the shade at all costs.
I need sunscreen on cold and windy (but bright) days in spring, especially. That’s when the bits of me that aren’t fully covered by hats and coats can get burnt to a crisp before I realise what’s happening.
noodlezs76@reddit
SPF50
Lunaspoona@reddit
I am very pale, freckley and burn easy. I wear factor 50 on cool cloudy days, you can still burn on those days if theres UV rays. Weather apps will tell you the UV these days. On days like this I stay indoors where possible. If I have to go out it's factor 50 and light long sleeve tops to cover up, I try to only go out in the morning or evening if I can. I end the summer paler than when I started usually but that's what fake tan is for.
DoricEmpire@reddit
30+ if only. Where I am, apart from one day at 22, we are getting highs of 13-15
travelingwhilestupid@reddit (OP)
if only what? I don't follow.
box_twenty_two@reddit
Factor 50 SPF is part of my daily facial routine, but on arms/legs etc it’s only when I know I’ll be outside in the sun – it gets very greasy/sweaty and if I’m largely indoors it’s not worth it.
travelingwhilestupid@reddit (OP)
in winter?
box_twenty_two@reddit
Yeah, up to 80% of UV rays can penetrate clouds, and UVA rays (which cause premature aging) pass through windows and clouds alike so regardless of how many layers of clothes you’re wearing, your face is always exposed. So, daily SPF.
OrganicPoet1823@reddit
Temperature and UV are not linked as much as people think
Due-Presentation4344@reddit
I wear sunscreen on my face year round. I wear on the rest of my body anytime it's over around 25 degrees, always factor 30.
000000564@reddit
UV index is very high. People should be wearing suncream.
luala@reddit
We’re covered in it but looking at all the pink people around me, not everyone is. I’ve seen a few too many over hot babies too which has been worrying. Brits aren’t really heat safe
travelingwhilestupid@reddit (OP)
hot babies or burnt babies?
starfishwantscoffee@reddit
I wear factor 50 on any exposed skin all year round. Skin damage is absolutely not something to fuck with. Anyone not wearing it in this extreme heat is idiotic.
I work with a guy who thinks it’s incredibly manly and tough that he never wears any (a roofer mind you). Won’t feel so manly when he needs huge chunks of his face removed 🙄.
HerbTP@reddit
I wear it every day, regardless of heat.
tom-mart@reddit
Sunscreen is not protecting against heat but against UV radiation. It makes zero difference if it's 15 or 30 degrees outside, UV index is what you should be paying attention to.
travelingwhilestupid@reddit (OP)
that's exactly what this thread was actually asking. whether people know this, because it seems like most don't.
Kim-Jong-Nuke@reddit
i wear sunscreen all year round, even in the middle of winter. Nothing has really changed for me. Now however i’m more interested in reapplying during the day.
travelingwhilestupid@reddit (OP)
>even in the middle of winter.
why?
DaveN202@reddit
I wear suncream not sunscreen
terryjuicelawson@reddit
I always think of sun screen as the thick white stuff that cricket players put on their faces as they are out in it all day. Not the cream that absorbs in.
MissingScore777@reddit
Yeah seems really awkward carrying a screen everywhere. Suncream is much easier.
jesuseatsbees@reddit
I wear it every day on my face, even in winter. The rest of me, I’ll put it on in weather like this if my skin is showing (which it rarely is, I’m very fair.)
Mina_U290@reddit
No because I'm hiding indoors.
Taylor_Kittenface@reddit
Not to be a Debbie downer, but the UVA rays (aging and skin cancer) do still get to you indoors through the glass windows. Guessing in this heat you've got your curtains shut while the blazing ball is up, but it's a good thing to remember.
I use an E45 moisturiser with SPF 30 after I shower every day, and a tinted moisturiser with SPF 15 on my face.
I am Scottish and the colour of white that looks translucent though lol.
travelingwhilestupid@reddit (OP)
Are you sure a little sun wouldn't be good? Like a little Vitamin D. Obviously not a lot, but there's really not a lot of sun in the winter in GB.
Milam1996@reddit
Not to make you crash out but that tinted moisturiser is doing absolutely nothing for your face. SPF 15 is useless when applied properly but to get the stated rating it’s a line of cream across two fingers just for the face. You’d have to put so much tinted moisturiser on youd look absolutely insane.
Taylor_Kittenface@reddit
Yes, very aware of that. But I have acne rosacea, and can't apply thick creams to my face, so the lighter SPF is all I can use, otherwise I end up on a 3 month course of antibiotics just to stop my face from being open sores and bleeding onto my pillow.
Milam1996@reddit
Try out the eucerin spf 50 oil control. Absolute game changer and is only about 25 quid for 200mls which is a bargain for a high performance spf. It dries down in about 30 seconds and its not thick or gloopy at all. I slather it on and once it dries down you cant even tell it’s on.
Mina_U290@reddit
I've got a silver reflecting sheet up at the windows as I'm south facing and my garden has been 40 degrees.
I'm a dog walker so I normally wear it, but obviously not worked in this heat.
I always remember Billy Connolly on stage, saying it takes him a few days to go white in the sun, as being Scottish he's normally blue. 😂
Taylor_Kittenface@reddit
40 degrees is awful, I honestly don't know how anyone's brain functions at that point, especially if you're working or trying to sleep.
Billy is a legend, similarly reflective when it comes to the sunshine 😂
LayingInBracken@reddit
Depends on the uv strength, not the heat. Also depends if I spend time outside or not. I work from home and don't like to tan so I mostly hide inside during the brightest hours. And when I finally venture out, the uv is below 3 and dropping fast so no need.
sleepyprojectionist@reddit
I’m very pale and have always burned easily.
Then in the last year I have been on immunosuppressants that make me even more sensitive to sunlight.
If I have to be outside for more than five minutes at a time I am slathered head to toe in factor 50.
On_The_Blindside@reddit
Sun cream, not sunscreen, we're not yanks.
I wear SPF 30 containing moisturiser on my face and head every day anyway as I'm bald so it burns very easily.
But yeah, we put it on our daughter so it's a kick up the arse to put it on ourselves too
travelingwhilestupid@reddit (OP)
you might not be a yank, but maybe I am? (I'm not) It's AskUK, not AskUKBritsOnly.
Jimbobthon@reddit
I'll splash some on if i'm going anywhere in this. Friend of mine got skin cancer (they're fine, caught it early enough), so i don't want to take any chances.
I do burn easily, so i'll put at least Factor 30 on my face, legs and arms.
OkTension2232@reddit
Never do. I'm trying to catch a tan, I almost never get a chance to do so. The only time I apply sunscreen is if I've been tanning long enough that I know if I continue to tan further I'll get sunburn.
seana39223@reddit
In the recent heat absolutely, generally speaking I look up the UV index before deciding whether to put on sun cream.
travelingwhilestupid@reddit (OP)
Interesting. Was the UV index particularly high this week?
wearezombie@reddit
Yeah it’s been 7 last few days (on a scale of 11, 11 being extreme where you burn in minutes)
NekoFever@reddit
It goes higher than 11, it’s just anything 11 or above is the same “extreme” category and to be avoided because skin and eye damage is likely.
I was in South Africa during their summer a couple of years ago and saw it hit 15.
wearezombie@reddit
Ah thanks for letting me know, every days a school day, I’ve only ever seen graphs up to 11. Must be able to feel yourself sizzling!
No_Preference9093@reddit
If I’m outside for a significant period of time. For a 5 minute pop to the shops or just for going to work to sit in an air conditioned building, no.
travelingwhilestupid@reddit (OP)
Specifically because it's a hot day? Or you do this every day of summer?
TeHNeutral@reddit
Realistically it's for uv and not heat, you should do it for most of the year
travelingwhilestupid@reddit (OP)
that's what this thread was really asking
No_Preference9093@reddit
Depending on how much sun there is. It’s about UV index not temperature.
travelingwhilestupid@reddit (OP)
that's what this thread was really asking
Beaver-hausen@reddit
I wear a factor 50 on my face every day and reapply throughout the day
I sit in the shade and I still wore factor 50 on my body when I was outside.
At best without it I'd get sunburn. At worst, well skin cancer looks like it sucks.
bizzys92@reddit
I wear sunscreen all year round. SPF 50.
Historical_Project86@reddit
Yes. I was actually discussing this with friends on Sunday at a barbecue. Pretty much everyone I know puts SPF 50 on their face and neck at least.
travelingwhilestupid@reddit (OP)
Specifically because it's a hot day? Or you do this every day of summer?
Historical_Project86@reddit
I do it pretty much whenever it's sunny, especially when the sun is strong, not so much in winter. My wife does it all year round, but then she lost her mother to a metastasised melanoma.
ukbot-nicolabot@reddit
OP marked this as the best answer, given by /u/AncientImprovement56.
^(What is this?)
Suspicious-Brick@reddit
No as I am trying to stay out of it where I can and am only exposed for 15 mins tops as I go for a quick walk somewhere. When it is a touch cooler I am very conscious of suncream, especially when I lay in my hammock.
Doug__Quaid@reddit
I always have some sort of sun cream in my face every day (part of moisturizer or I put it on). Known a few people who have had skin cancer so I want to protect myself.
WonkyGaze@reddit
No, as I'm avoiding going outside.
wildflower12345678@reddit
Factor 50. When I have to be out in the blazing sun as I was on Monday afternoon. Also wear a hat. If I can be out but in the shade like I was yesterday then I don't wear sunscreen.
josiejgurl@reddit
Factor 50 on any sunny day regardless of heat. Burt skin sucks and increases the risk of cancer. Skin cancer rates have gone up astronomically in the last ten years.
marmiteyogurt@reddit
I’ve had skin cancer, I would recommend everyone to get into an spf routine, not to do with the heat though, which can be deceiving thinking you don’t need it on a cooler sunny day and the common sense stuff like trying to wear a hat etc
Swimming_Possible_68@reddit
I hate the feel if sunscreen, so I usually stay well shaded instead.
mumwifealcoholic@reddit
Yes, If I'm out more then 10/15 minutes.
I urgently need the sunshine.
First 15 minutes we go bare, after that we slather in and/or cover up
jeminar@reddit
You get UV rays from blue sky, not the sun. The sun just makes you hot.
I stay in the shade because suncream makes me instantly feel the need to shower.
Ellajt@reddit
No but I also try stay in the shade, I don’t tan so there’s not really any benefit in suffering!
Pristine_Winter_5513@reddit
Yes. However, I have seen a lot of anti-suncream noise recently saying it's not good for us, so I feel I need to do some research into it.
Ok-Suspect-3726@reddit
No! Done lots of seasonal work so very very tanned and for some reason don’t get burned if I sit outside for 8 hours in the sun 😂
djdjjdjdjdjskdksk@reddit
This will backfire when you’re looking twice the age of your peers in ten years time
MossTrinkets@reddit
Probably shouldn't for health reasons but not everyone is obsessed with looking young.
Ok-Suspect-3726@reddit
I’ve already been told I look 15 years older then I am so I’ve given up on trying to look young 🤣
MossTrinkets@reddit
I'm a firm believer that you can look great without looking young (and, with some rare exceptions, when we say someone looks young at 45 what we really mean is "really nice for their age".) Leave youth for the youths!
No-Translator5443@reddit
If their peers drink smoke or do drugs they’ll still look younger
Ok-Suspect-3726@reddit
I agree unfortunately it’s a bad habit I might occasionally wear SPF 15 if it’s after winter I know a couple people that have never worn suncream and it definitely shows on their faces & bodies
banxy85@reddit
You're maybe not feeling burnt but your future is either melanoma or at the very least looking 70 when you're 50
AarhusNative@reddit
You can still get cancer, though.
BrewtallyCozy@reddit
I didn’t really go out in the sun during the heatwave. Was struggling with my asthma. So I was better in doors with the A/C on I could actually breathe.
I did go outside to hang clothes though. I didn’t put any sunscreen on then.
Firebirdapache@reddit
I'm a parcel delivery driver and wear face suncream everyday of the year. I also use cream on arms or legs depending if I am covered up or not. Usually from February onwards I am in a t-shirt. Shirts come out when a little warmer.
Final_Flounder9849@reddit
I wear SPF 30 everyday as a minimum anyway. In the summer (or crazy spring days like we’re experiencing now) it goes up to SPF 50. I also wear a hat or use a UV blocking umbrella.
Ready-Fox-3264@reddit
I wear sunscreen every day, even when it’s not sunny
NecronomiconUK@reddit
I’d be fascinated about the overall cost of that.
Ready-Fox-3264@reddit
I use it mostly on my face and neck, and on a day like today it also goes on my arms, too. 2 to 3 bottles last me an entire year.
travelingwhilestupid@reddit (OP)
in winter?
CandidLiterature@reddit
Yes… Well over 90% of diagnosed skin cancers could have been avoided with proper sun cream use. Use something like Riemann that genuinely lasts all day, get on with your life.
wearezombie@reddit
Your skin can be damaged from the sun even if it doesn’t evidently burn, especially if you take certain medicines or use certain products like retinoids. Can cause wrinkles, dehydrated skin, hyperpigmentation or just general sensitivity
Ready-Fox-3264@reddit
Yep, it sounds counterintuitive but as long as it’s daylight, there are UV rays landing on my face, even if it’s winter or an overcast autumn day. I do it due to skin ageing.
BlendinMediaCorp@reddit
Right here with ya. I do it for the vanity 🤣 (less cancer is also a great bonus).
FriendlyCan4037@reddit
Ginger Final Boss...
DecompressionIllness@reddit
Yes. I’m on medication that makes me super sensitive to the sun.
Kim_catiko@reddit
I have to because I am pale as a ghost and never tan. I just burn otherwise. I still wearing suncream on my face all year round though.
Digital-Sushi@reddit
Yes.
Sadly the top of my head has outgrown the top of my hair so unless I want to look like a tomato on a stick it's kinda needed
Midnight_Crocodile@reddit
Hell yes! But I’m a GenX girl who didn’t start moisturising regularly until I was 30, and never bothered with sunscreen in my 20s ( despite my mother practically BATHING my sister and myself in the stuff when we were kids; my sister was a white blonde baby during the 75/76 heatwave so serious suncream and shade was necessary to keep her from combusting 🤣) I’ve recently needed treatment for a precancerous patch on my nose; I probably won’t need a Voldemort nose job, but be smart everyone! Slip Slap Slop in the sun; I consider myself to have had a lucky escape 😏
NecronomiconUK@reddit
If I’m going outside for more than 10 mins and the UV index is high then I put on SPF50 and a hat
The last few days I’ve done whatever possible to stay the fuck inside. Only going out really late in the evening to give the dog a lil walk.
lapsedPacifist5@reddit
Nope because I'm inside with the curtains drawn. Fuck this sunny shit.
terryturbojr@reddit
I wouldn't wear it on a work day as well barely be out But I wore it in in the weekend and bank holiday as out and about more
I also try and wear a hat when I'm out too
Tachanka-Mayne@reddit
On a day like it was on Monday, for most people, if you don’t and spend more than an hour or so in the sun, particularly around midday, then you’re gunna get burnt.
travelingwhilestupid@reddit (OP)
Specifically because Monday was a hot day? Or you do this every day of summer?
Tachanka-Mayne@reddit
Well any hot / sunny day where the UV levels are sufficient to do you damage, which is basically any summer day. Monday is just an example of a day where’d you’d be particularly likely to get sunburnt seeing as your question was regarding ‘the recent heat’.
Personally, having been burnt on completely overcast days before, I go more by UV levels, which can be high in summer even on non-sunny days.
eat-real-chips@reddit
I wear spf100 in the summer and spf50 the rest of the year. I’m ginger and pale.
Sea-Ad-527@reddit
I put factor 50 (brand new, in date) on this weekend, applied it throughout the day and am still burnt. I will continue to use it though, cancer stats are terrifying so if I can actively try and eliminate my risks I will!
Fun-Marionberry9907@reddit
You need to use more than you think, might be why you burned. I am slathered at all times in the sun and I basically dip my three year old in it hourly.
Sea-Ad-527@reddit
I mean I slathered myself in it! My kids have never been sunburnt.
Alternative_Head_416@reddit
There was an investigation recently that I’m sure found some sun creams weren’t actually factor 50 despite advertising as such. Some were much much stronger though. I think Boots and Lidl own brand came out on top.
Fun-Marionberry9907@reddit
Oh how weird and annoying! I guess factor 50 still lets some UV through. Hope it’s not too painful.
Sea-Ad-527@reddit
Thankyou. I have after sun in the fridge, it is THE best feeling!
Fun-Marionberry9907@reddit
… that’s genius. I never thought of that!
Milam1996@reddit
Check out solbari. They do spf clothing that’s not utterly minging. I have the active wear stuff for when I go hiking and it’s spooky how cool it keeps you. I wore solbari head to toe climbing snowden in July. Look insane wearing trousers, long sleeve, hat and a snood in July but it keeps you far cooler than exposed skin.
New_Pop_8911@reddit
It's worth looking up the Which? Tests of sunscreen, there can be some variation in effectiveness between brands
HipKittens@reddit
The question should be whether you are covering up on hot days. Sun cream can only do so much, especially for very fair skinned people.
Coldthots@reddit
You should be wearing it even on a cloudy day.
benDB9@reddit
The sun is as strong in May as in July - always wear it if I’m outside (but I burn easily).
TwaddleSpouter@reddit
I wear it every single day.
dearestd0ve@reddit
korean skincare has me so yes, facial sunscreen all year round, body when it’s warm and I have any considerable amount of skin exposed. went out on sunday without because I didn’t think it’d be too bad and swiftly learned my lesson (not quite burned but tender, and I am not someone who burns easily) so both days since I’ve been slapping it on. sun damage is no fun
anxious_and_tearful@reddit
I go spf 50 and carry a little one in my bag for touch ups
sausagerollfanatic@reddit
I wear it pretty much every day now, regardless of the temperature.
Disastrous_Bad0103@reddit
I generally wear 50 on my face throughout the year (unless it’s actively raining). It doesn’t take any effort and I’ve been burnt before. Plus trying to encourage my child into good habits
Milam1996@reddit
I wear sunCREAM on my face every day the UV is above 0. Don’t bother with the rest of my body cause I want a tan. Yes I’m an idiot. Yes I do tell people to wear spf and the dangers of skin cancer. Yes I know I’m a hypocrite
dinkidoo7693@reddit
Yes. I have fair skin and burn easy
Whoosholliander@reddit
I always cover myself in factor 50. I hate the summer!! 😭
Kukotzki@reddit
I wear sunscreen all year round. I reapply sunscreen especially on my face, neck & chest in the heat.
Realistic-Muffin-165@reddit
You can get sunburnt in overcast weather so pretty much all summer long if I'm out in it for more than a few minutes.
vrekais@reddit
Every day I'm outside for more than 30 minutes in the sun.
knightsbridge-@reddit
No, though I probably should.
My husband is slathering it on because he turns into a full-body lobster after 15+ minutes of sun exposure.
I haven't bothered because I don't usually get sunburnt, I tan reasonably well (for a pasty British girl). I'm actually kind of enjoying my mild little tan.
These reasons have absolutely nothing to do with preventing skin cancer, which is the real reason why I should be wearing it.
pattybuttie@reddit
Suncream is a must, even in cloudy or colder weather.
I always apply my facial SPF and then on visible skin :)
I am pale AF though, and have a fair few tatts.
Paid alot of money for 'em, so need to look after 'em!
alicatpow@reddit
Factor 50 on any exposed skin whenever I have to go outside. I think attitudes have changed. My mother never wears sunscreen despite being a ginger and she will go sit in the sun all day. I don't mess with the sun without protection, apart from knowing about the risks I also feel my pasty British skin is not accustomed to the sun after a long winter and I would burn even if I didn't get skin cancer.
Filthy_Oily_Fanny@reddit
For sure. I’m 56 and never wore sunscreen. I work outside too.
IllCommunication3242@reddit
Yes! But I wear spf on my exposed skin in the winter too, no sign of ageing here please 😂
Championpuffa@reddit
I don’t wear it and haven’t done since I was like 15/16. I used to wear it sometimes often if on holiday with parents but back then it was like spf 8 that I’d use.
I don’t bother now. I would if I was gonna go out and be in the sun for a long time but otherwise nope. I don’t even own any sun cream to begin with.
I don’t burn that easily either.
missuseme@reddit
I do put it on but I'm terrible at remembering to reapply it.
Plus if I'm out for a run I feel like I've sweated it off within the first few minutes
cannon4344@reddit
I put it on my face all year around as it slows down aging. But I don't stay out long enough to need it on the rest of my body
BagIll2355@reddit
No as I haven’t been out in the heatwave I sit in a shady spot in the garden or I’m in the car then in a shop out and home again. It’s melty out there.
vitriolicheart@reddit
Basically, if I'm leaving the house, yes. If I'm not no.
If you do go out it should be applied much more frequently than you think.
QueefInMyKisser@reddit
No because I don’t go outside much in the middle of the day when it’s really hot. I went to the cricket yesterday evening but by the evening the UV index is low anyway. Sun cream usually doesn’t play very well with my eczema either.
evertonblue@reddit
In this heat, if I am at home I make sure i stay out of direct sun - more due to the UV forecast than the heat itself.
I use an umbrella in my garden and stay in the shade wherever possible
plasma7602@reddit
Never wore it
FriendlyCan4037@reddit
Yes SpF 30 on my face, ears and arms. I don't know how I haven't got burnt really I'm dark blonde/light brown hair but I have actually tanned ok which is nice I guess.
DrH1983@reddit
I check the UV forecast and if it's high I'll use it if I'm going to be outside. If it's moderate I'll use it if I'm going to be outside for a long period. When it's low I'll likely just leave it.
I've had to go out a few times over the last few days when it's been high so I've used it then
atomic_mermaid@reddit
In summer I wear it every day, and take it with me/reapply when I know I'm going to be out in it a lot.
Managed a whole day outside with virtually no shade on Sunday at Slam Dunk without getting one bit of sunburn, unlike the skin cancer lobsters I saw around me.
172116@reddit
It's got nothing to do with the heat. I wear a decent SPF if I'm going to be outside more than incidentally, particularly on my face.
Illustrious_Study_30@reddit
Yes. .I have a new arm tattoo, I'm close to ginger and I'm having laser hair removal this year. Add those things together and I'm hiding indoors and thinking of wearing a rash vest in the car 🤣🤣. I already have truckers arm
boojes@reddit
I wear it in spring/summer if I'm going to be outdoors for more than 10 minutes. Not in winter because UVB isn't as strong then.
girlandhiscat@reddit
Yes - I'm mixed race and don't burn easily but it's so important to look after your skin. I wear spf on my face daily, even in the winter
nomotivationgf@reddit
I wear SPF on my face everyday because I have a few moles and I'd like to lower the odds of developing melanoma. Now that it's hotter and more of my body is show, I wear SPF on anything that's visible.
Ok_Young1709@reddit
I wear it every day even in winter. Having a skin cancer scare does that to you.
yessirnosirmaybesirr@reddit
No, haven’t used sunscreen in years.
travelingwhilestupid@reddit (OP)
why?
MissingScore777@reddit
Awkward to carry one around, suncream is a lot easier.
fieldyxo@reddit
Why not?
yessirnosirmaybesirr@reddit
Just never needed to. My skin never feels like it’s getting tender or starting to burn. Haven’t had sunburn ever on my actually body just on my ears one time in Egypt.
DevilishlyHandsome63@reddit
Yep I do. Fair skinned,so I burn within half an hour of being in the sun. I use a 30 spf, so I get a little bit of colour! I wear a cap too,as I've had a burnt scalp in the past and it was something I'd never want to repeat!
heartpassenger@reddit
I wear it daily on my face as it’s part of my skincare routine. Helps with reducing pigmentation and premature ageing. I’m pale AF so have the tendency to burn and wrinkle at barely a glimpse of sun. In terms of body sunscreen I tend to prefer covered clothing in the heat, but I do wear it on my neck, ears, wrists, and ankles if I’m going out! Again, because I’m pale AF and the sticky sensation is more bearable than blistering.
Dry_Yogurt2458@reddit
I wear sunscreen even when it's not hot. My moisturiser contains a sunscreen. When you look at people that don't use sunscreen you can really tell especially when they are older.
EyeAware3519@reddit
Of course I am.
Last-Cauliflower-181@reddit
No. I don’t tend to wear suncream in the UK. Sometimes if I’m with the kids and setting an example but generally not.
ans-myonul@reddit
Yes. I have really pale, sensitive skin so I feel anxious about the risk of skin cancer
Inkyyy98@reddit
Yup! And I’m paranoid so my little boy, and the residents I looked after in a nursing home don’t go out unless they look like Casper the friendly ghost.. but talking of my residents, obviously I can’t make them if they have capacity and it’s surprising how many of them are against suncream
Merlisch@reddit
I case of skin cancer already in the family, possibly a 2nd. I can see no reason to add another risk marker to my long list :) And I've invested way too much into ink as well. Sunscreen whenever the sun is out.
ads894@reddit
SPF50 everyday
jaymatthewbee@reddit
If it’s sunny I usually wear a hat outside, and if I’m outside for prolonged periods in the sun in spring/summer I’ll wear suncream, regardless of the temperature.
Sorry-Programmer9826@reddit
When we went out to the craft market on the weekend I put on sunscreen. I wouldn't put it on if I'm just briefly going out but would if I'm outside for a significant amount of time
melanie110@reddit
I wear it pretty much every day. Even in winter especially on my face
Other_Bookkeeper_279@reddit
I’m pale but I only ever wear it when it’s early in the spring before I have built up my tan, only natural sun cream too, none of the main brand stuff, no aftersun either, I use beef tallow is like you never even went in the sun the day after. I don’t like covering my skin in chemicals day and night, and I build enough tan to spend all day in the sun unprotected
jamnut@reddit
Aye pitz buin tan stuff, may as well get brown while protecting myself
loubs56@reddit
Yes! I work in healthcare and frequently see the consequences of ppl not protecting their skin
ExcitementKooky418@reddit
No, and I rarely do in the UK, but it did cross my mind that maybe I ought to
travelingwhilestupid@reddit (OP)
It crossed your mind because it was hot?
zig131@reddit
Yes. Before I go out, and taking some out to top-up with if I am going to be out for a while.
Feel like I am pretty rare in this. I was away at the weekend with a sports team, and they all seemed much more relaxed about it.
travelingwhilestupid@reddit (OP)
Specifically because it's a hot day? Or you do this every day of summer?
zig131@reddit
I wear at least SPF 15 day cream year-round outside of all but the most overcast days.
When it's T-Shirt weather, and therefore arms+back of neck are going to be exposed too, then suncream comes out, and SPF 50 face cream also.
BG3restart@reddit
I've been wearing tinted SPF50 sunscreen on my face every day, regardless of the weather, since I developed rosacea about five years ago. If I'm going to be in the sun, I'll use SPF30 on any exposed areas of my upper body, but I don't bother with my legs as they appear to be made of elephant hide.
Swimming-Lie5369@reddit
Yes, I work outside.
Eky24@reddit
Yes, it would be silly not to.
supergraeme@reddit
I went for an hour-long run at midday yesterday. I had sun cream on my big bald noggin (and face etc).
travelingwhilestupid@reddit (OP)
Specifically because it's a hot day? Or you do this every day of summer?
Odd to go running in the heat
supergraeme@reddit
I run most days. I particularly like the hot days as it's more challenging.
Sun cream was because it was very sunny. I don't bother all the time.
miIk-skin@reddit
I wear sunscreen all year round.
the01li3@reddit
Working from home, when it gets too hot, i just stay inside. So dont really wear it unless i go out anywhere, or the garden.
Mavz-Billie-@reddit
Barely left the house
griffaliff@reddit
I was in the south Lake District over the bank holiday, I could feel my legs burning in minutes so I absolutely lathered that shit on. Makes me wonder what people are doing when you see them everywhere red as lobsters. Been there myself and it's so rough.
ZombieGash@reddit
Not everyone does but it should be worn all through out summer. Even on a normal day.
Pegasus2022@reddit
If am sitting outside than yes, if i am going to work than no
NecessaryTraining508@reddit
Pretty much every day of the year - I can burn in the winter
zpeers82919@reddit
This guy gingers
Mr_Bumcrest@reddit
If I was outside in the direct sun for an extended period of time, yes. As it stands, I am not outside long enough, or having enough skin on display to worry.
leekyscallion@reddit
Usually yes if I’m spending more than ten minutes in the sun. Doesn’t have to be hot, I’ll burn in April if the sun is intense enough
fredfoooooo@reddit
No. Cover up first with hat and loosely fitting light coloured clothes.
Silly_Ant_9037@reddit
Exactly! Someone wearing very little tried to offer me sunscreen yesterday. I pointed out that my skin was covered up with loose clothing.
travelingwhilestupid@reddit (OP)
Most people don't cover their hands and face, but if you have a good hat, you'll be mostly good
swiftcardine@reddit
I wear a 30 on my face because I’m worried about wrinkles now. But I’ve built up a tolerance from going turkey each year so never really put any on my body unless I’m sun bathing
crazehhuman@reddit
No but i’ve also not been out in the sun long enough for it to matter
Pavlover2022@reddit
If you have a smartwatch you can get faces that tell you what the current UV index is. Anything over 3 - regardless of if its sunny or cloudy - you should be wearing sunscreen to protect against both UVA (the ageing ones) and UBV (the burning ones).
Optimal_Collection77@reddit
I'm trying zinc sunblock this year. The Aussies use it when surfing so as a baldie I'm giving it ago
Bobby_-_D@reddit
I wear moisturiser with low SPF all year. I have been wearing additional high SPF sunscreen when venturing out in the heat.
BabaYagasDopple@reddit
If I have to go outside for long than 5 minutes yes.
Otherwise I’m staying covered up and out the direct rays.
Don’t need my skin to look like my ballbag
scrotalsac69@reddit
On face yes, I nearly always wear long sleeves and trousers when it is hot. Lightweight and upf 50 tops win
DigitalStefan@reddit
I spent a maximum of 10 minutes outside yesterday. No sunscreen.
New bicycle gets delivered this week. If I go out for a ride I will sweat like nothing else. I’ve never had sunburn after a long bike ride even on the hottest days.
HeadForUse@reddit
Well is that or the A&E burns unit.
travelingwhilestupid@reddit (OP)
Specifically because it's a hot day? Or you do this every day of summer?
justanothergin@reddit
Sunscreen should be worn all the time regardless of heat
Worth_Kangaroo_6900@reddit
SPF 50 on face from May - September - part of morning routine. It’s easier now as kids have it on so am much better at just spraying myself. I’d love to be better at it all around the year tbh. Try and use 30 on my body. Just found a non sticky instant dry one so hoping this the answer!
OkTechnician4610@reddit
Tbh I avoid going out for more than a few minutes when sun is at is strongest. I have very pale skin & will be the colour of a tomato in a very short time. I always have sunscreen with me in the summer if I need to go out. High factor. I’ve been burnt before & remember how painful it was.
raspberryamphetamine@reddit
I wear SPF on my face literally every day of the year, I’m pale and very sun sensitive and I want to avoid as much sun damage/wrinkling as possible! Any time there is a sniff of me going outside, which is unavoidable because I have kids, I’m slathering suncream everywhere else that could see sun.
mysteriousmistress66@reddit
I wore sun cream for the first time ever in my adult life yesterday. (It's not that I want skin cancer, I just really struggle to apply it)
Still got fucking sunburnt. And I did apply a really thick layer of it as well
fishyfishyswimswim@reddit
Well, I'd be pink in 5 minutes and red in 10 if I didn't, so all else aside, it's not optional for me
travelingwhilestupid@reddit (OP)
Specifically because it's a hot day? Or you do this every day of summer?
mrbullettuk@reddit
Not usually, no. I stay indoors because it’s cooler.
I do if I’m going to be outside for any length of time but I also try and avoid direct sun.
Big fan of hats.
Resident_Revenue6401@reddit
Because I was born with a tan, nope.
One-Staff5504@reddit
I wear spf every day and sunscreen but still somehow missed a spot and got burned
PolarLocalCallingSvc@reddit
Absolutely. I wear it spring til autumn usually.
PollyPutty@reddit
Yes I wear a lot in the summer because I am ginger and burn extremely easily, along with UV protection clothing and big hats. In the colder months I wear sunscreen more as a vanity thing to slow down aging skin.
Talking about this in work yesterday and one person said they’d cycled 5 miles to work without any and another person said they hadn’t bought any ‘yet.’ What do you mean!!!!
MercuryJellyfish@reddit
My sunscreen is hard shelter.
TopBookChat1105@reddit
Yes. I may look brown but my dad’s Irish and my skin knows it.
Lobster isn’t my best look.
travelingwhilestupid@reddit (OP)
Specifically because it's a hot day? Or you do this every day of summer?
seklas1@reddit
Yes if in direct sun for more than a few minutes, otherwise no.
Alone_Improvement735@reddit
Yes, if I’m going to be outside. And even then I’ll be sat in the shade
travelingwhilestupid@reddit (OP)
Specifically because it's a hot day?
Alone_Improvement735@reddit
If it’s going to be sunny, not necessarily as hot as this. I use spf on my face year round though.
musicallymotivated93@reddit
Yes, when I'm outside. The sun isn't something I fancy picking a fight with.
LaidBackLeopard@reddit
The last few days, less than usual because I've been avoiding the sun entirely. Usually I'm spending more time out there and always put it on.
Joanna1604@reddit
Yes. I have eczema so sunscreen is a must. I hate the hot weather because my skin really struggles and I feel miserable.
Electric-aura3000@reddit
I always forgot
abarishyper@reddit
A hat and long sleeves is muly preferred SPF :)
spinzzi@reddit
Yes always
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