Quick Answer
A higher UV Index means stronger UV radiation and a higher risk of sunburn and skin damage. At a UV Index of 3 or higher, sun protection such as sunscreen, shade, or protective clothing is recommended.
UV Index Scale Explained
| UV Index | Risk Level | Recommended Protection |
|---|---|---|
| 0–2 | Low | No protection needed for most people |
| 3–5 | Moderate | Sunscreen SPF 30+, sunglasses |
| 6–7 | High | Limit midday sun, protective clothing |
| 8–10 | Very High | Seek shade, reapply sunscreen often |
| 11+ | Extreme | Avoid direct sun exposure |
What Affects the UV Index?
- Time of day (highest around solar noon)
- Latitude and season
- Altitude (UV increases ~10% per 1,000 m)
- Cloud cover and surface reflection
- Ozone concentration
Why the UV Index Matters
Monitoring the UV Index helps reduce the risk of sunburn, premature skin aging, and long-term skin damage, especially for fair or sensitive skin types.
How SunSafe Uses the UV Index
SunSafe tracks real-time UV data for your location and combines it with your skin type to estimate time to sunburn, vitamin D intake, and safe tanning duration.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is UV Index 3 dangerous?
UV Index 3 is considered moderate. Sunburn is possible after prolonged exposure, especially for fair skin types.
Can you tan when UV Index is low?
Yes, tanning can occur at lower UV levels, but it happens more slowly and still requires protection.