Why sun protection is the best skincare
If you do one thing for your skin, make it sun protection. Most visible skin ageing, fine lines, uneven tone, loss of firmness, comes from cumulative UV exposure, and UV is the leading preventable cause of skin cancer. Daily protection is cheaper and more effective than almost any anti-ageing product, and it protects your health at the same time.
Understanding UVA, UVB, and SPF
- UVB causes sunburn and plays a major role in skin cancer
- UVA penetrates deeper, drives ageing, and also contributes to cancer risk
- SPF measures protection against UVB; look for 'broad-spectrum' to cover UVA too
- SPF 30 blocks about 97% of UVB; SPF 50 a little more. No sunscreen blocks 100%
UV gets through clouds and windows
UVA passes through glass and cloud cover, so daily protection matters even on grey days and during indoor work near windows.
How to use sunscreen properly
Most people apply far too little, which means they get a fraction of the SPF on the label.
- Use a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher every day
- Apply about two finger-lengths for the face and neck; roughly a shot-glass amount for the body
- Apply 15 to 30 minutes before going out
- Reapply every two hours, and after swimming, sweating, or towelling off
Reading the UV index
Most weather apps show a daily UV index. From 3 upward, protection is recommended; at 8 and above, take extra care with shade, clothing, and timing. Seek shade during the middle of the day when UV peaks, and remember that water, sand, and snow reflect UV back onto your skin.
Beyond sunscreen
- Wide-brimmed hats and UV-protective sunglasses
- Tightly woven or UPF-rated clothing
- Shade during peak hours
- Extra care for children, whose skin is more vulnerable
Watch your skin for changes
Get to know your skin and check it regularly. The ABCDE guide helps you spot worrying moles: Asymmetry, Border irregularity, Colour variation, Diameter larger than a pencil eraser, and Evolving (changing) appearance. Any new, changing, bleeding, or non-healing spot deserves a clinician's eyes.
Don't wait on changing spots
A mole that is changing, bleeding, itching, or a sore that won't heal should be assessed promptly. For severe sunburn with blistering, fever, dizziness, or signs of heatstroke, seek urgent care: call 911 (US/CA), 999 (UK), or 112 (EU).
If you've noticed a spot you're unsure about, you don't have to wait. On iHealix you can share clear photos with a verified dermatologist or doctor online for an initial assessment and guidance on whether you need in-person review.