Should You Wear Sunscreen on a Cloudy Day in the UK?

During the summer in the UK, most people are sensible enough to wear sunscreen. The temperatures are high, and the sun is out; while most people want to get a tan, they do not want to end up burnt. Of course, you also have to make sure that your skin is protected from UV rays that can be damaging.

But, what about when it is cloudy during the day in the UK? Do you still have to wear sunscreen? Many people are guilty of not doing this. Yet, what do the experts say when it comes to cloudy days and sunscreen? Let’s take a closer look.

Do You Need to Wear Sunscreen on a Cloudy Day?

The simple and straightforward answer to this question is yes. You should be wearing sunscreen on a cloudy day in the UK. Indeed, we all know that cloudy days are common in Great Britain and people need to start changing their habits. It could damage their skin, which can lead to wrinkles and dark spots, as well as increase their risk of cancer.

When the sun is not out, and it is a cloudy day, most people do not consider sunscreen. After all, where is the sun? But, it is important for people to learn that this is not always a safe thing to do. In fact, you should be trying to protect your skin all year round, even when you are in the UK. Sunscreen is not just for going on holiday and visiting a warm country. This is because the UV index is what is important, not always if the sun is out. If the number is three or higher, this means that your skin needs protection from the rays.

Therefore, most people agree that applying an SPF sunscreen should be part of your daily routine. Indeed, it should be done in the morning and first thing before you go out in the sun. This way, your skin is protected from the beginning of the day and you do not have to worry about it until later.

There are many products you can buy that are easy to apply and moisturise at the same time. For example, you can take a look at the sunscreen products available at Questmoor Pharmacy. This includes popular brands, as well as high SPF products. So, take a look, and choose the product you want to wear that is suitable for your skin.

How Do You Choose a Sunscreen?

Are you not sure what is the best sunscreen to wear in the UK? We have prepared some tips that are going to help you learn more about what you should be doing and what products to buy.

Select a High SPF

When you are selecting a sunscreen, make sure that you choose a high SPF. This stands for sun protection factor, and it is believed that the higher the number, the better protection from UV rays. Indeed, you want to make sure that you are protecting your skin as much as you can when you are going to be outside. The rays are still coming through the clouds even though you cannot see them, and the sun is not directly out.

Choose Broad Spectrum

Most people are aware of UV rays being harmful. But, they are not aware that there are UVA and UVB rays. You want to protect your skin from both. For instance, you are going to notice that products have an SPF factor. Yes, you want to pay attention to this and choose one that is high. But, you also want to ensure that the product mentions being ‘broad spectrum’. This means that it is going to protect your skin from UVA, as well as UVB rays.

Always Read the Instructions

When you are applying sunscreen, make sure that you always read the instructions. You want to make sure that you are using the product correctly and protecting your skin. For example, there are some products that state they should be applied a certain amount of time before going out in the sun. So, you want to follow those instructions to make sure you can protect your skin correctly.

Apply to All Skin

On a cloudy day, people are tempted just to apply sunscreen to their faces. They believe that the skin on their face is sensitive and needs more protection. Of course, you do want to protect your face from the sun. But, you also need to make sure you are protecting all skin that is on show. It can also be at risk from damage and UV rays. So, this can apply to your neck and upper chest, as well as your arms. 

Buy Every Year

A lot of people do not realise that sunscreen can go out of date. In fact, it might only last around 12 months once it has been opened. If you continue to use this product after the date, this can mean that it is not giving you the protection you need. The last thing you want is to be applying sunscreen just for your skin to be getting on protection. Therefore, it is best to buy new sunscreen every year. Pay attention to what the recommended date is for keeping the product.

Look for Moisturising Ingredients

One of the reasons why people do not like wearing sunscreen is that it can feel heavy and oily. In some cases, people say that it leaves their pores blocked and does not feel good on the skin. When this happens, you are less likely to wear it. So, look for a product that has moisturising ingredients. This means that it can feel lightweight on the skin and allow it to feel smooth and soft afterwards. When the product feels nice to wear, you are going to be more inclined to put it on every day. Think about the ingredients that normally agree with your skin and try to find them in a sunscreen.