Here's why people get caught out and how to stay safe, while still enjoying the warmer weather.
Spring sun is more intense and we aren't used to it
Getting out in the spring sunshine not only makes us feel good psychologically – it also enables us to build up our vitamin D levels, which are likely to have become depleted over the winter. It doesn't come without a word or two of caution, though.
After the winter months our skin isn't used to UV exposure, and so it's likely to be more sensitive to sun when we first venture out.
While we're more attuned to the fact that summer holidays abroad equal sun protection, we don't always have this mindset as well established when spending time outdoors in the UK, especially if it's an impromptu park visit or spending time in your garden.
So it's worth checking your stock of sun cream, and thinking ahead to avoid being caught out.
How to avoid getting sunburn in spring
Don't just go by how hot it feels or looks
Not only that, the changeable UK weather can mean a rainy spring morning soon evolves into a blisteringly hot afternoon.
If you're planning to spend time outdoors – especially social events that can last hours, such as sports events, days out, barbecues or picnics – it's worth pre-applying sun cream, taking cover-ups such as hats and having a supply to hand in case you need a top up, or if you can't be sure there'll be shady spots.
While it's best not to rely solely on the weather forecast, you can plan ahead by checking the UV index online. If it's registering 3 or above you should be thinking about sun protection measures, especially if you have light or fair-coloured skin or burn easily.
Don't use out-of-date sun cream
Sun cream generally lasts for one or two years after opening, so check the icon of a circular pot with an open lid that you'll find on the back of the bottle to see what timeframe applies.
Replace it with a newer bottle if necessary as there's no guarantee the active ingredients will still work optimally if it's past its best.
The NHS recommends at least SPF30 for everyone, regardless of skin type.
Watch out for commonly missed areas
Michelle Baker of Melanoma Fund UK says: 'The prime areas for a sunburn are noses, ears and shoulders, and those with thinning hair should always protect their scalp.'
Don't neglect parts of your body that tend to be hidden from the sun until the summer wardrobe comes out, such as behind your knees or the tops of your feet.
Use clothing to help reduce sun exposure, such as a broad-brimmed hat, sunglasses (which must meet the British Standard BSEN 1836:2005 if non-prescription and carry the CE mark) and UV-protective clothing for outdoor swimming or watersports.
Don't rely on an moisturiser 'with SPF'
This doesn't mean you shouldn't bother using one: dermatologists recommend moisturisers and make-up containing UV protection because it's better than no protection at all. But they say that, while OK for small amounts of UV exposure, such as when you go to your car or hang out the washing, they aren't up to more prolonged exposure.
For prolonged periods in the sun, including spending your lunchbreak outside on a sunny day, they recommend you apply a proper sun cream.
undefinedsource https://www.which.co.uk/news/article/spring-sunburn-dont-get-caught-out-aL34M4S3Xq7q