19-06-2025
Third of Brits are skipping SPF on this crucial body part as expert warns 'do not ignore'
We might think we're covering every area with SPF but it turns out we're overlooking one key body part
Sunshine is finally breaking through the UK skies after a period of heavy downpours, wind, and thunderstorms. Even when the sun is behind the clouds, though, it is important to protect our skin by wearing a good SPF.
The UK weather offers little certainty, and with the summer holidays approaching, travellers may be actively seeking destinations with guaranteed sunshine, where, after lathering on the sun cream, they can kick back and relax.
New research from Saga Holidays, found that 68 per cent of Brits surveyed consider beach temperatures a key factor when choosing a holiday. There's a reason for this - a little sun is quite literally what the doctor ordered.
Pharmacist Carolina Goncalves says moderate sun exposures "helps your body produce serotonin, the 'feel-good' neurotransmitter that lifts your mood and brings a sense of calmness".
However, the research from Saga Holidays and Carolina also revealed that almost a third of Brits are making a crucial mistake by not protecting the delicate skin on one part of their body from the sun.
It turns out the most common mistake Brits make when using SPF is overlooking the lips. In fact, almost a third of Brits fail to protect their lips with SPF lip balm, whilst just one in four do so.
To ensure we are enjoying the sun safely and maintaining a healthy sun exposure balance, Carolina has teamed up with GP Dr Hana Patel to reveal their top tips for how to protect our skin.
Health experts' top tips for safely making the most of the sun
Protect your lips
"The skin on the lips is thinner and more delicate, so use an SPF 30 lip balm or higher," Carolina urged.
"If you do get burnt, a thin layer of aloe Vera gel or petroleum jelly will soothe."
As mentioned, only one in four Brits consistently protect their lips with SPF lip balm – and 30 per cent never do this.
Regularly apply sunscreen- even if it's 'water-resistant'
"Even if your SPF is 'water resistant', reapply lotion straight after you have been in water, after towel drying and sweating," Patel advised.
Alarmingly, less than half (45 per cent) of Brits say they always reapply sunscreen - but one in ten never do this.
Take regular breaks during peak UV hours
Carolina warns to take regular breaks between peak UV hours (10am-3pm), yet only 39 per cent of Brits always do this and one in seven (14 per cent) never take breaks during peak times.
In a separate report, Yinka Ebo, Senior Health Information Officer at Cancer Research UK explained: "We all need some sun to keep us healthy, but it's important to stay safe when the sun is strong and take care not to burn.
"In many cases sunburn actually happens in the UK, often when people are out and about. The sun's rays can be strong enough to burn in the UK from around April to September.
"You can protect yourself and your family from sunburn by using a combination of shade, clothing and at least SPF 15 sunscreen when enjoying the sunshine."
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