UV Index Guide
UV Index Scale
Sun Protection Tips
| Method | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Sunscreen | SPF 30+ (daily), SPF 50+ (outdoor activities). Reapply every 2 hours. |
| Clothing | UPF 50+ fabric, long sleeves, wide-brim hat (3+ inch brim) |
| Sunglasses | UV400 or 100% UVA/UVB blocking lenses |
| Shade | Seek shade especially 10am–4pm (peak UV hours) |
| Timing | Best outdoor time: before 10am or after 4pm |
Factors That Increase UV Exposure
| Factor | Effect |
|---|---|
| Altitude | UV increases ~10% per 1000m elevation |
| Snow / Sand | Reflects up to 80% (snow) / 15% (sand) of UV |
| Water | Reflects ~25% of UV; also transmits UV below surface |
| Clouds | Light clouds reduce UV slightly; heavy clouds reduce ~50% |
| Latitude | UV is stronger near the equator |
| Ozone | Ozone depletion leads to higher UV levels |
Skin Type & Burn Time (UV Index 6)
| Skin Type | Description | Burn Time |
|---|---|---|
| I | Always burns, never tans | ~10 min |
| II | Usually burns, tans minimally | ~15 min |
| III | Sometimes burns, gradually tans | ~20 min |
| IV | Burns minimally, always tans | ~30 min |
| V–VI | Rarely burns, deeply pigmented | ~40+ min |