Overview

• Authorities now assign sun-exposure limits based on skin phototype, ranging from 5–10 minutes for the fairest skin to 90 minutes for the darkest under similar UV index conditions.
• The UV index is classified on a 1–11+ scale to indicate tiered risk levels that guide tailored protection recommendations.
• Experts warn that seeking shade is not a substitute for sunscreen because up to 80% of UV radiation can penetrate or reflect in sheltered areas.
• Broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30+ or higher) should be applied liberally every two hours and after swimming or sweating to maintain effective defense.
• Dermatologists now stress full-body coverage to prevent unguarded areas from triggering central melanin synthesis that can cause facial pigmentation despite facial sunblock.