Sun Exposure Calculator
Calculate safe sun exposure time based on your skin type, UV index, and protection factors. This calculator helps you determine how long you can stay in the sun before risking sunburn.
Your Results
| Safe Sun Exposure Time | 0 minutes |
|---|---|
| Time to Sunburn | 0 minutes |
| Sunburn Risk Level |
Low
|
Protection Recommendations:
- Apply broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher
- Reapply sunscreen every 2 hours, or after swimming/sweating
- Wear protective clothing, including a wide-brimmed hat
- Seek shade during peak sun hours (10 AM - 4 PM)
- Wear UV-blocking sunglasses
About Sun Exposure Calculator
This Sun Exposure Calculator helps you determine how long you can safely stay in the sun based on your skin type, the UV index, and your sun protection measures. Understanding your safe sun exposure time can help prevent sunburn and reduce long-term skin damage.
How to Calculate Safe Sun Exposure
The calculator uses established dermatological guidelines to estimate your safe sun exposure time:
- Skin Type: Determines your baseline sensitivity to UV radiation (Fitzpatrick scale)
- UV Index: Measures the strength of sunburn-producing UV radiation at a particular place and time
- SPF Protection: Sun Protection Factor indicates how much longer you can stay in the sun without burning
- Additional Protection: Clothing and shade provide extra protection beyond sunscreen
- Time of Day: UV radiation varies throughout the day, peaking at midday
Understanding the Results
The calculator provides several key metrics:
- Safe Sun Exposure Time: How long you can stay in the sun before risking damage
- Time to Sunburn: Estimated time until sunburn occurs without protection
- Sunburn Risk Level: Color-coded indicator of your risk level (Low to Extreme)
- Protection Recommendations: Personalized suggestions based on your inputs
Important Notes
While this calculator provides useful estimates, keep these important points in mind:
- Actual UV exposure can vary based on altitude, reflection (water, sand, snow), and weather conditions
- Sunscreen effectiveness depends on proper application (most people apply only 25-50% of the recommended amount)
- No sunscreen blocks 100% of UV rays, and all sunscreen effectiveness decreases over time
- Children and those with photosensitivity conditions may need extra protection
- Regular skin checks with a dermatologist are recommended for early detection of skin damage