What SPF to wear and how to apply sunscreen as NHS urges usage even when cloudy

The sun is finally coming out in the UK with Scotland seeing glorious temperatures.

And whilst many people think they don't need to wear SPF because they're in the UK, the NHS warn that this is far from the truth and that you need to protect your skin with SPF - even if you're not abroad.

Sun burn increases your risk of skin cancer, however you can still get sunburn even in the UK even if it's cloudy. So what SPF should you be wearing and what is the correct way of applying it?

According to the NHS, you should try and get into the shade when the sun is at its strongest. In the UK, this is between 11am and 3pm from March to October.

Just recently the NHS issued an urgent sunscreen warning, urging people to check label before they apply it. Taking to Instagram, they warn against sunscreen that is out of date. If you are not adequately protected from the sun, you are more at risk of developing cancer such as melanoma, as it can damage the DNA of skin cells. And you can be at risk even without sunburn.

So what factor SPF do I need to wear?

To keep you protected from the sun, you should look out for two things on the label.

• a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 30 to protect against UVB

• at least 4-star UVA protection

The health service warns that you should not rely on sunscreen alone to protect yourself from the sun and should wear suitable clothing.

They add: "UVA protection can also be indicated by the letters "UVA" in a circle, which indicates that it meets the EU standard."

The correct way to apply sunscreen

In their guide, the NHS state that adults should aim to apply around six to eight teaspoons of sunscreen if you're covering your entire body. If you're worried you are not using enough SPF30, try using a higher SPF.

As the NHS cautions, if you plan to be out in the sun long enough to risk burning, sunscreen needs to be applied twice - 30 minutes before going out and just before going out

Where should I apply sunscreen?

You should apply it to all exposed skin, including the face, neck and ears. You should also apply it to your head if you have thinning or no hair. However a wide-brimmed hat is better if you can get one.

The NHS warns: "Sunscreen needs to be reapplied liberally and frequently, and according to the manufacturer's instructions.

"This includes applying it straight after you have been in water, even if it's "water resistant", and after towel drying, sweating or when it may have rubbed off.

"It's also recommended to reapply sunscreen every two hours, as the sun can dry it off your skin."

What clothes should I wear in the sun?

Wear clothes and sunglasses that provide sun protection. This includes:

• a wide-brimmed hat that shades the face, neck and ears

• a long-sleeved top

• trousers or long skirts in close-weave fabrics that do not allow sunlight through

• sunglasses with wraparound lenses or wide arms with the CE Mark and British Standard Mark 12312-1:2013

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