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What is the UV Index – And Why It Matters More Than the Weather

What is the UV Index – And Why It Matters More Than the Weather

The UV Index is a daily forecast that tells you how strong the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays are in your location. It’s rated on a scale from 1 (low) to 11+ (extreme). And unlike the weather forecast, it’s not just about how sunny it looks – it’s about how much UV is hitting your skin.

Why does that matter?

Because UV is what causes 90% of all skin cancer and 80% of visible skin ageing – wrinkles, dark spots, sagging, and damage that builds up silently, whether you're on a beach or walking to the shops.

How the UV Index scale works

The scale runs like this:

1–2: Low risk – Little danger, but don’t get complacent if you're out for hours.

3–5: Moderate – Damage is possible with prolonged exposure.

6–7: High – Risk of harm in under 30 minutes. Sunscreen is a must.

8–10: Very High – Serious damage can happen quickly. Stay protected.

11+: Extreme – Stay in the shade and take full precautions. This is desert-level UV.

The higher the number, the more UV radiation reaches your skin – and the faster damage can occur.

Why you can’t trust the weather

It’s easy to think UV is only a problem when it’s sunny. But that’s a dangerous myth.

According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), up to 80% of UV rays can pass through cloud cover. And UVA rays, the type that cause long-term skin ageing and deeper DNA damage, are just as present in winter as summer.

So while it might feel cool or look cloudy, the UV Index could still be high. That's why it's the number to watch – not just the forecast.

What’s a “High” UV day in the UK?

In the UK, the UV Index usually peaks between April and September.

On a hot summer’s day, it can reach levels of 7, 8 or even 9, especially around midday. But even on a spring morning in the mountains or a cloudy day at the coast, the Index might still be above 3 – which is enough to do damage without protection.

If you’re skiing, hiking, or out on the water, UV exposure goes up. Snow reflects up to 80% of UV rays. Sand and sea reflect around 25%. And for every 1,000m increase in altitude, UV levels rise by about 10–12%.

How to check the UV Index

You can find the UV Index on most weather apps, or online via the Met Office or WHO. It’s updated daily, and usually shows the peak UV expected that day (often around noon to 2pm).

Top tip: Don’t just check the number – check the time of day it peaks and what you’re planning to do outside.

How to use the UV index to protect your skin

If the UV Index is 3 or above, that’s your sign to act. Here’s your simple UV defence:

  • SPF 50+ every morning (don’t skip it)
  • Reapply if you're outside for more than two hours
  • Cover up with UPF 50+ gear (hats, sunglasses, sleeves)
  • Avoid peak hours if you can – especially between 11am–3pm
  • Even on a ‘low UV’ day, it's worth sticking to your routine. UV damage is cumulative – it adds up slowly over time.

Why do we care about the UV Index?

We’re not just here to sell skin protection. We’re here to help you keep doing what you love – outdoors, all year round – without getting blindsided by something invisible but powerful.

Most people don’t realise how serious UV damage can be. Most don’t know the UV Index exists. But it’s one of the simplest tools for protecting your health.

Our gear – from sun protection skincare to UPF 50+ clothing – is designed to give you practical, hassle-free protection against UV. Because when you know the Index, and you’re prepared, you don’t have to change your plans. You just change your approach.

Final word

Don’t just look out the window. Look at the UV Index.

Sunshine is lovely. But UV? That’s what you need to watch.