Who's at risk of sunburn?

Everyone who is exposed to UV light is at risk of getting sunburn, although some people are more vulnerable than others.

You should take extra care when out in the sun if you:

  • have pale, white or light brown skin
  • have freckles or red or fair hair
  • tend to burn rather than tan
  • have many moles
  • have skin problems relating to a medical condition
  • are only exposed to intense sun occasionally for example, while on holiday
  • are in a hot country where the sun is particularly intense
  • have a family history of skin cancer

People who spend a lot of time in the sun, whether its for work or play, are at increased risk of skin cancer if they dont take the right precautions.

Snow, sand, concrete and water can reflect the suns rays onto your skin, and the sun is more intense at high altitudes.

Content supplied by the NHS Website

Medically Reviewed by a doctor on 21 Dec 2018