Summer skin: your pharmacist's guide to sun protection in Ireland

As the days grow longer and the Irish summer finally makes an appearance, many of us are eager to spend as much time outdoors as possible. Whether you are heading to the local beach, enjoying a hike in the countryside, or simply relaxing in your garden, protecting your skin from the sun is absolutely essential. While we might not always associate Ireland with intense sunshine, the reality is that our skin is still highly vulnerable to ultraviolet damage, even on cloudy days. As a pharmacist, I frequently advise patients on the best ways to protect their skin, and I want to share some key insights to help you enjoy the summer safely.

The first thing to understand is the UV index, which measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun. In Ireland, the UV index is typically highest between April and September, peaking between the hours of eleven in the morning and three in the afternoon. The Health Service Executive advises that sun protection is necessary whenever the UV index is three or higher. It is a common misconception that you only need sunscreen when the sun is splitting the stones. In truth, up to eighty percent of UV rays can penetrate through cloud cover, meaning you can still sustain skin damage on a typical overcast Irish summer day. Checking the daily UV index on your weather app should become as routine as checking if you need an umbrella.

When it comes to choosing a sunscreen, the terminology can sometimes be confusing. You should always look for a product that offers broad-spectrum protection, meaning it defends against both UVA and UVB rays. UVA rays are primarily responsible for premature skin ageing, while UVB rays are the main cause of sunburn. The Sun Protection Factor, or SPF, indicates the level of protection against UVB rays. For the majority of people in Ireland, I strongly recommend using a minimum of SPF 30, though SPF 50 is even better, particularly for children or those with very fair skin. It is also crucial to ensure the product has a high UVA star rating, ideally four or five stars, to guarantee comprehensive protection.

The Irish population predominantly falls into Fitzpatrick skin types I to III, which means our skin is generally fair, burns easily, and tans poorly or not at all. This genetic predisposition makes us particularly susceptible to sun damage. Unfortunately, skin cancer is the most common cancer in Ireland, with thousands of new cases diagnosed each year. This stark reality underscores the importance of taking sun protection seriously. It is not just about avoiding the short-term discomfort of sunburn; it is about protecting your long-term health and reducing your risk of developing skin cancer later in life.

Applying sunscreen correctly is just as important as choosing the right one. Most people simply do not apply enough. As a general rule, an average adult needs about thirty-five millilitres of sunscreen—roughly the equivalent of two tablespoons—to cover their entire body adequately. You should apply it generously at least twenty minutes before going outside to allow it to bind to your skin. Reapplication is equally vital. You must reapply your sunscreen every two hours, and immediately after swimming, sweating heavily, or towel drying, regardless of whether the product claims to be water-resistant.

While protecting our skin from the sun is paramount, we must also consider our vitamin D levels. The body creates vitamin D from direct sunlight on the skin when outdoors. However, due to our northern latitude, the sun in Ireland is only strong enough to produce vitamin D from late March to September. The HSE recommends that everyone in Ireland consider taking a vitamin D supplement, particularly during the winter months, and certain at-risk groups should supplement year-round. It is entirely possible to maintain healthy vitamin D levels through a combination of safe sun exposure, diet, and appropriate supplementation without compromising your skin's safety.

Wondering whether you need a vitamin D supplement? Read our guide to Vitamin D in Ireland →

Finally, it is important to be vigilant about checking your skin for any changes. You should regularly examine your moles and freckles, looking out for any new marks or changes in the size, shape, or colour of existing ones. If you notice anything unusual, or if a mole becomes itchy or starts to bleed, you should consult your general practitioner without delay. Early detection is crucial when it comes to skin cancer. Remember, your local pharmacist is always available to offer advice on choosing the right sun protection products for your skin type and can also recommend soothing after-sun care if you do happen to catch a little too much sun.

Stay safe and enjoy the Irish summer! Best wishes, Aidan