When is UV Safety Awareness Month?
UV Safety Awareness Month takes place throughout July, when ultraviolet (UV) levels are typically at their highest across the UK. The campaign coincides with the summer holiday season, when many people spend more time outdoors enjoying parks, beaches, sporting events, festivals, and other recreational activities.
Why UV Safety Awareness Month matters
Exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun is the leading cause of most skin cancers. It can also cause painful sunburn, premature skin ageing, and increase the risk of eye conditions such as cataracts.
Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in the UK, with around 17,500 new cases of melanoma—the most serious form of skin cancer—diagnosed each year. Rates have risen significantly over recent decades, but many cases are preventable through sensible sun protection.
UV Safety Awareness Month highlights the importance of simple steps to reduce UV exposure, including using a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30, wearing protective clothing and sunglasses, seeking shade during the middle of the day, and taking extra care to protect children and those with fair skin. Raising awareness of these everyday habits can help reduce the risk of skin cancer and support long-term skin health.
How to get involved in UV Safety Awareness Month
- Wear broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher every day, even on cloudy days.
- Use protective clothing, wide-brimmed hats, and UV-blocking sunglasses when outdoors.
- Seek shade during peak sun hours, typically between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
- Avoid tanning beds and opt for sunless tanning products if desired.
- Schedule regular skin checks with a dermatologist and perform self-exams at home.
- Educate children about sun safety early to help them build lifelong habits.
Facts About UV Radiation and Skin Health
- UV-A rays penetrate deep into the skin and are associated with skin aging and wrinkles.
- UV-B rays affect the skin’s surface and are the primary cause of sunburn.
- Melanoma is the deadliest form of skin cancer but is highly preventable with proper protection.
- Water, sand, snow, and concrete all reflect UV rays, increasing your risk even in shaded areas.
- Daily sunscreen use can reduce your risk of developing squamous cell carcinoma by about 40%.