Sunscreen, Summer and Staying Safe in the Sun
With summer just around the corner, many of us in the UK are looking forward to a much-needed break—whether that’s enjoying the local heatwaves or heading abroad in search of some sun. But while soaking up the sunshine can lift our mood and boost vitamin D levels, it also comes with a serious health warning: Rising rates of skin cancer, particularly Melanoma, mean it’s never been more important to protect your skin.
One of the easiest and most effective ways to protect our skin is by using sunscreen. Sunscreen helps shield your skin from harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays, which can damage skin cells and increase your risk of cancer. But not all sunscreens are created equal—and how you use them matters just as much as which one you buy.
What does SPF mean?
You’ve probably seen “SPF 30” or “SPF 50” on all sunscreen bottles. SPF stands for “Sun Protection Factor” , and it tells you how well the sunscreen protects against UV rays, which cause sunburn and contribute to skin cancer.
So in summary:
-SPF 30 blocks about 97% of UV rays
-SPF 50 blocks about 98% of UV rays
-The higher the SPF number, the better the protection—it filters out a larger percentage of UVB rays that cause sunburn and skin damage
Although the 1% difference might not sound like much, but over time it can make a big difference. No sunscreen can block 100% of UV rays, which is why reapplication is crucial – Especially after swimming, sweating a lot, or drying off with a towel.
Keep an eye on your skin
Increased sun exposure can lead to changes in your skin, especially moles. The most dangerous type of skin cancer is Melanoma, which can spread quickly if not detected early. That’s why it’s important to check your skin regularly and look out for the ABCDEs of Melanoma:
-Asymmetry – One half of the mole doesn’t match the other
-Border – Edges of the mole look irregular, ragged or blurred
-Colour – Multiple colours or uneven shades within the mole
-Diameter – Larger than 6mm (about the size of a pencil eraser)
-Evolving – Change in size, shape, colour, or feeling (itching, bleeding)
If you notice a new mole, or an existing one that’s changing or looks different from the rest, don’t wait—see your GP as soon as possible.
Final thoughts
The sun can be energising, and relaxing but it also comes with the risk of UV exposure. So pack your sunscreen, wear your hat, check your skin, and enjoy your holidays safely.
Have fun, stay sun smart, and have a fantastic summer ☀️
Siddhanth (Sid) Kachroo
Siddhanth Kachroo (Sid) is a final-year medical student at Cardiff University School of Medicine with a keen interest in surgery and the evolving intersections between medicine and technology. Passionate about exploring how clinicians can make an impact beyond the traditional clinical path, he enjoys learning about med tech, healthcare innovation, and the roles medics play in corporate and non-clinical fields. When he’s not in scrubs or studying anatomy, he’s probably watching Formula 1 or cricket highlights.
6 Comments
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Neetu
I have often wondered about the differences between various types of sunscreens. Thank you for explaining it in such clear and simple terms.
I look forward to reading more informative articles like this in the future. -
Poonam Kachroo
Loved the write-up!
This is a really informative piece. It’s so important to remind people that sunscreen should be a part of their daily skincare routine.
Thanks for spreading the awareness!
Would love to see more in that. -
Editor
Great article reminding us to top up our sun protection while enjoying the much-needed sunshine. Thank you, Sid, for writing this important piece and introducing the crucial facts about protecting our skin against the harsh effects of the sun. A follow-up article would be great to add how Indian skin has certain peculiarities and how we can tailor our protection accordingly. Some clarification on SPF vs PA ratings would be very helpful. How about adding a quick review of some popular high street sunscreen brands as well?
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Dr Sidharth
I want to compliment and appreciate you for your well crafted piece about Summer, Sunscreen and Safety in the Sun. As we head into the summer months, your article is not only well-written but also timely & informative. The article is engaging, making important health information accessible and relatable to a wider audience.
Hope to see more contributions from you, meaningfully contributing to public awareness and well-being!
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Priyanka Singhal
Very informative article, Siddhant.
Most of us are unaware of how important sunscreen truly is, and your article clearly explained why choosing and applying the right type matters. Thank you for shedding light on this essential aspect of skincare. Looking forward to reading more articles from you on day-to-day health care—practical, well-explained guidance like this is always appreciated. Best wishes!
Sumit
I just read the article and wanted to say how much I appreciated it. Your clear, informative writing made the topic both engaging and easy to understand. The breakdown of SPF levels and the ABCDEs of melanoma were especially helpful—practical advice that’s easy to comprehend and remember.
You’ve managed to balance scientific accuracy with an accessible tone, which isn’t always easy. It’s great to see health education presented in such a reader-friendly way.
Thanks for spreading awareness and helping readers stay safe in the sun. Looking forward to reading more of your work!