The ultraviolet index are a numerical value that measure the strength of the ultraviolet radiation that come from the sun. The index also tell people how much uv radiation is reaching the earth. Weather applications will display the uv index for people throughout the day, as the uv index do change throughout the day.
When the uv index is low, there is less uv radiation. Low uv radiation allow people to spend more time outside without risking damage to they skin. However, when the uv index is high, there is high level of uv radiation.
UV Index and Sun Safety
High levels of uv radiation allow people to spend less time outside. Peoples skin type will determine how quick their skin burns from the uv radiation. The skin type of an individual is one of the factors that determines there safe amount of exposure to uv radiation.
Dermatologists uses a scale to measure the skin types of individuals. For instance, individuals that have very fair skin typically has skin types that burn easy and have difficulty tanning. Individuals that have very dark skin tend to have skin types that tan easy and have difficulty burning.
An individual can use a time to-burn chart to determine how their skin type will react to the current uv index. The time to burn chart will display the amount of minute that an individual can be exposed to the sun without their skin beginning to burn. The time of day that an individual is outside can have a significancy effect on their exposure to uv radiation.
The uv index is highest at the height of the sun during the day. Therefore, uv radiation is lower in the mornings or late afternoon. The uv index is typically at its peak between ten in the morning and four in the afternoon.
People should seek shade during these hour. Therefore, people should plan tasks during hours with a moderate uv index, while indoor task should be planned during hours with a very high uv index. There is several methods that can be used to protect the skin from uv radiation.
For low uv indices, sunglasses will be one of the method of protection. For uv indices that are moderate, individuals should use sunscreen with at least an SPF of thirty and wear a hat. For uv indices that are high or very high, individuals should wear clothing with a UPF rating.
UPF clothing will provide a physical barrier between the skin and the uv radiation. Suncreen will block the uvb radiation that cause skin burns. People should reapply sunscreen after two hour, if they are outside, as sunscreen expire after two hours.
Additionally, people should reapply sunscreen after sweating or swimming in the ocean. People must apply sunscreen correct to ensure adequate protection. Many individuals does not use enough sunscreen.
If individuals use insufficient amount of sunscreen, their skin will be at a higher risk of burning. Individuals should apply sunscreen at least fifteen minute prior to stepping outside. Additionally, sunscreen should be applied to area that are typically missed, such as the ears and feet.
Finally, there are environmental factor that can impact exposure to uv radiation. For instance, snow reflect some of the uv radiation that is reflected off of the snow. Therefore, an individual doubling their exposure to uv radiation if they are outside in a snowy area.
The same is true for sand and water. Finally, the uv intensity are higher at higher altitudes. Additionally, some medications can increase the sensitivity of the skin to the uv radiation in the sun.
