UV protection – that’s what matters!

Pay attention to the UV index

From a UV index of 3, protection from UV radiation is required, in the following order:

UV-protection: this is what you should consider

1. Avoid: Seek shade during the midday hours
Shade can be provided by trees, awnings, buildings or sun shades, for example.

2. Dress: Wear appropriate clothing, shoes, hat and sunglasses.

3. Apply sunscreen: Use sunscreen with sufficient sun protection factor for uncovered skin. The Federal Office for Radiation Protection recommends a high sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 30. Staying at high altitudes, on snow, near water and in sunny regions requires a sunscreen with a very high sun protection factor (50+). Very high protection is also recommended for children, UV-sensitive people and people with skin types I and II.

From a UV index of 8

If possible, avoid staying outside during lunchtime! This is also easy to remember: Between 11 and 3 sun free.

If you can't stay indoors, it's best to seek shade. Shade reduces UV radiation - for example under a parasol by up to 30 percent and under a tree with a dense, large crown by around 20 percent. Snow, water and light-colored surfaces such as bright, dazzling house facades, asphalt or light-colored sand surfaces reflect UV radiation and thus intensify it. The UV exposure can then be higher than the specified UV index.

Long-sleeved clothing, a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses and sunscreen with sufficient sun protection factor are urgently needed. And very important: don't forget to put on sunscreen another time. However, re-applying the cream does not extend the protective effect. It just maintains them. You can find out more about this under UV protection for the skin.