SPF, UVA Stars and Broad Spectrum: A UK Sunscreen Guide

Sunscreen labels can be confusing, especially when you are packing for an autumn city break, a winter sun holiday or a week on the slopes. SPF numbers, star ratings, circles and “broad spectrum” claims all mean slightly different things. This guide explains what each one tells you, how much sunscreen to use and how often to reapply, based on guidance from the NHS, the British Association of Dermatologists (BAD) and the Met Office.

SPF: protection from UVB

The sun gives off two main types of ultraviolet light that affect skin: UVB and UVA. SPF stands for sun protection factor, and it measures protection against UVB. The NHS recommends a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 to protect against UVB.

A higher SPF is not a reason to stay out longer. The NHS is clear that you should not rely on sunscreen alone: spend time in the shade when the sun is strongest, cover up with clothing and a hat, and wear sunglasses.

UVA stars, the UVA circle and “broad spectrum”

Because SPF only covers UVB, you also need to check the UVA protection. On many sunscreens sold in the UK you will see one of these:

• UVA star rating: a scale of stars that measures the amount of UVA protection. The NHS recommends at least 4-star UVA protection, and the BAD suggests looking for 4 or 5 stars.
• UVA circle logo: the letters UVA in a circle show that the product meets the EU standard for UVA protection.
• “Broad spectrum”: the NHS explains that sunscreens protecting against both UVA and UVB are sometimes called broad spectrum.

Buying international versions

Many of the sunscreens we sell are international versions of familiar brands, often made for the US market. US labels follow different rules, so they usually show “Broad Spectrum SPF” rather than a UK star rating or the UVA circle. Under US rules, “Broad Spectrum” means the product has passed a test showing its UVA protection is proportional to its UVB protection. Check the product description for SPF 30 or higher and broad-spectrum wording, and if you are unsure whether a product suits you, ask a pharmacist. You can compare options in our sunscreens collection.

How much to apply

Most of us use far less sunscreen than we think. The NHS says adults should aim to apply around 6 to 8 teaspoons of sunscreen to cover the entire body. Skimping means you are likely to get less protection than the number on the bottle suggests.

• Apply to all exposed skin, including the ears, the back of the neck, the tops of the feet and any bald or thinning patches.
• The BAD suggests applying sunscreen about 15 to 30 minutes before going out, then again shortly after you step outside, to cover any missed patches.
• Body lotions and sprays in larger sizes are easier for covering arms and legs; see our body sunscreens.
• Lips burn too. The BAD notes that some lip balms and moisturisers with sun protection only offer UVB protection, so check the label. Our lip care range includes SPF balms.

If sunscreen is part of your morning routine on holiday, our simple skincare routine guide explains where it fits alongside cleanser and moisturiser.

Reapplying: the step people forget

Sunscreen rubs, sweats and washes off. The NHS advises reapplying every 2 hours, and straight after you have been in water, even if the product says “water resistant”. You should also reapply after towel drying or sweating. On a ski day that means carrying a small tube in a pocket and topping up at lunch and after a sweaty run.

Check dates too. The BAD says the typical shelf life of a sunscreen is 30 months, and the open-jar symbol with a number and “M” shows how many months the product lasts once opened. A half-used bottle from two summers ago may be out of date.

Babies and children

Children’s skin needs extra care. The NHS advises that babies under 6 months should be kept out of direct strong sunlight. For older children, the NHS recommends at least SPF30 sunscreen, suitable clothing that covers the skin, and a wide-brimmed hat that shades the face, neck and ears. If your baby or child has a skin condition, or you are unsure which product to use, speak to your pharmacist, health visitor or GP.

Autumn and winter: when sunscreen still matters

In the UK, the NHS says the sun is strongest between 11am and 3pm from March to October. The BAD’s sunscreen fact sheet says daily year-round sunscreen is unnecessary in the UK for most people, because in the winter months the UV index does not get high enough for it to be beneficial. People with certain medical conditions may be advised differently by their doctor.

The picture changes when you travel. The BAD notes that the UV index can be extreme in some countries, so an October half-term trip or a winter sun break needs the same care as a British summer, or more.

Use the UV index

The Met Office UV index runs from Low (1–2) through Moderate (3–5), High (6–7) and Very High (8–10) to Extreme (11+). From Moderate upwards, sunscreen is advised. The BAD uses a UV index of 3 as the point at which it recommends sun protection for people with white skin. Most weather apps show the UV index for your destination.

Skiing and snow

Mountains are a special case. The Met Office says snow reflects around 85% of the sun’s UV rays, which can burn the underside of your chin and your ears. Up to 80% of UV penetrates light cloud, so a grey day on the piste is not a safe day. Reflected UV also means your eyes can receive twice as much UV light during winter sports. The NHS recommends sunglasses with wraparound lenses or wide arms carrying the CE mark and British Standard Mark 12312-1:2013 E. Pair them with a high SPF, 4-star UVA sunscreen and an SPF lip balm.

Sun protection checklist

• SPF 30 or higher for UVB
• 4 or 5 UVA stars, the UVA circle, or “broad spectrum” on international labels
• Around 6 to 8 teaspoons for full-body coverage
• Apply before going out, reapply every 2 hours and after water, sweat or towelling
• Check the UV index for your destination; protect from 3 upwards
• Extra care on snow: chin, ears, lips and eyes
• Babies under 6 months out of direct strong sun
• Check the open-jar symbol and replace old bottles

Frequently asked questions

What SPF should I use in the UK?

The NHS recommends a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 to protect against UVB, together with at least 4-star UVA protection. Sunscreen should be used alongside shade, clothing, a hat and sunglasses.

What does the UVA star rating mean?

The star rating measures the amount of UVA protection a sunscreen gives. The NHS recommends at least 4 stars, and the BAD suggests 4 or 5 stars.

Do US sunscreens have a UVA star rating?

US-market sunscreens usually use “Broad Spectrum SPF” wording instead of UK stars or the UVA circle. Under US rules, broad spectrum means UVA protection is proportional to UVB protection.

How often should I reapply sunscreen?

The NHS advises reapplying every 2 hours and straight after being in water, even if the product is water resistant. Reapply after towel drying or sweating too.

Do I need sunscreen for skiing in winter?

Yes. The Met Office says snow reflects around 85% of the sun’s UV rays and up to 80% of UV passes through light cloud, so protect skin, lips and eyes on the slopes.