The World Health Organization (WHO) explains that ultraviolet (UV) radiation can damage the skin and eyes. Sun protection is recommended when the UV Index reaches 3 or higher. Using sunscreen alongside other protective measures can help reduce the effects of excessive UV exposure.

What Is Ultraviolet Radiation?

Ultraviolet radiation is energy from the sun that cannot be seen with the naked eye. Although sunlight helps the body produce vitamin D, excessive UV exposure can damage skin cells.

There are three main categories of UV radiation: UVA, UVB and UVC. Most UVC radiation is absorbed by the atmosphere before reaching the Earth's surface. UVA and UVB are the main types that affect the skin.

UVA rays penetrate deeper into the skin and contribute to premature ageing, including wrinkles and changes in skin elasticity. UVB rays are a major cause of sunburn. Both UVA and UVB can contribute to skin cancer, making broad-spectrum sun protection important.

Why Sun Protection Matters in Kenya

Kenya's location near the equator makes sun protection an important consideration throughout the year. However, UV radiation levels vary depending on factors such as the time of day, altitude, cloud cover and environmental conditions.

People should not rely on temperature alone to determine whether sun protection is necessary. A cool or cloudy day does not automatically mean UV exposure is low.

People who work outdoors, farm, walk long distances, participate in sports or spend extended periods outside may need to pay particular attention to protecting exposed skin.

Children and teenagers also need appropriate sun protection because excessive UV exposure and sunburn during childhood can contribute to skin cancer risk later in life. People with darker skin can also experience sun damage and develop skin cancer, even though their risk of sunburn is generally lower than that of people with lighter skin.

Benefits of Using Sunscreen

Sunscreen helps reduce the amount of harmful ultraviolet radiation reaching the skin when it is applied correctly. Dermatologists recommend it as part of a broader sun-protection routine.

Reducing sunburn: Sunscreen helps protect the skin against UV radiation responsible for sunburn.

Reducing long-term skin damage: Appropriate sun protection helps lower the risk of some forms of skin cancer.

Helping prevent premature skin ageing: Protection against UV exposure can reduce damage associated with wrinkles, age spots and loss of skin elasticity.

Helping manage pigmentation: Some tinted sunscreens contain iron oxides, which can provide protection against visible light that may worsen pigmentation in certain people.

These benefits depend on choosing a suitable product and applying it according to the instructions. Sunscreen does not block all UV radiation, so it should be combined with shade and protective clothing.

How to Choose the Right Sunscreen

Choosing sunscreen can be confusing because products have different SPF ratings, textures and claims. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends selecting a sunscreen that offers broad-spectrum protection, has an SPF of at least 30 and is water-resistant.

Choose broad-spectrum protection. Broad-spectrum sunscreen protects against both UVA and UVB radiation. This is important because both types can contribute to skin damage.

Look for SPF 30 or higher. SPF stands for sun protection factor and mainly indicates protection against UVB radiation. SPF 30 filters approximately 97 per cent of UVB rays under standard testing conditions. No sunscreen blocks every UV ray, and real-world protection depends on how correctly it is applied.

Check for water resistance. Water-resistant sunscreen can be useful for people who sweat heavily, exercise outdoors or swim. Products are tested to maintain protection for either 40 or 80 minutes in water, depending on the label. Reapplication is still necessary.

Consider the texture. Sunscreens are available as creams, lotions, gels, sticks and sprays. Choose a product that is comfortable to use regularly and suitable for your skin.

Read the packaging. Check the ingredients, directions, expiry date and storage instructions. Buy from reputable sellers and avoid products making unrealistic promises about instant skin transformation or complete protection from sunlight.

How to Apply Sunscreen Correctly

Even a suitable sunscreen may provide less protection than expected if too little is applied or exposed areas are missed. Correct application is essential for getting the protection stated on the label.

Apply it before going outdoors. Apply sunscreen about 15 minutes before sun exposure, following the product's directions.

Use enough product. Apply a generous, even layer to all exposed skin. The amount needed depends on the area being covered. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends approximately one ounce for the exposed skin of an adult wearing a typical swimsuit. The face requires considerably less.

Cover commonly missed areas. Remember the ears, neck, hairline, backs of the hands and tops of the feet. Use a lip balm containing SPF to help protect the lips.

Reapply regularly. When spending time outdoors, reapply sunscreen at least every two hours and immediately after swimming or heavy sweating, following the product instructions. Towel-drying can also remove sunscreen.

Use it when necessary on cloudy days. UV radiation can pass through clouds, so the weather alone is not a reliable indicator of exposure.

Does Sunscreen Work on Darker Skin?

Yes. Sunscreen can benefit people of every skin tone. Melanin provides some natural protection against UV radiation, but it does not make the skin immune to sun damage.

People with darker skin may experience pigmentation changes following inflammation or UV exposure. Some may also find that certain sunscreens leave a visible white cast, making them less comfortable to use.

Tinted sunscreens may be an option for people concerned about visible residue or pigmentation. The most important considerations are adequate broad-spectrum protection, suitability for the individual's skin and consistent use.

Other Ways to Protect Your Skin From the Sun

Sunscreen is only one part of an effective sun-protection routine. Combining it with other measures can provide better protection, particularly when UV levels are high.

Seek shade. Use trees, covered walkways, umbrellas or other available shade, especially around midday when UV radiation is often strongest.

Wear protective clothing. Lightweight, long-sleeved clothing and trousers can cover exposed skin. Clothing labelled with an ultraviolet protection factor (UPF) provides additional information about its protective performance.

Wear a wide-brimmed hat. A suitable hat can help protect the face, ears and neck.

Protect your eyes. Choose sunglasses labelled to provide 99 to 100 per cent UVA and UVB protection.

Check the UV Index. The WHO recommends taking sun-protection measures when the UV Index reaches 3 or higher.

Avoid artificial tanning devices. Tanning beds and sunlamps expose the skin to harmful UV radiation and increase skin cancer risk.

Sunscreen should not be used as a reason to remain in direct sunlight for longer. Shade, protective clothing and appropriate sunglasses remain important.

Common Sunscreen Mistakes to Avoid

Some people still experience sunburn despite using sunscreen because they apply too little, miss exposed areas or fail to reapply it when needed.

Other common mistakes include choosing a product without broad-spectrum protection, using expired sunscreen, assuming a high SPF provides complete protection and believing that sunscreen is unnecessary on cloudy days.

Spray sunscreens require particular care because it can be difficult to judge whether enough product has reached the skin. Follow the manufacturer's instructions and ensure exposed areas are covered evenly.

When Should You Seek Professional Advice?

A healthcare professional or dermatologist can help assess persistent skin irritation, unusual changes in a mole, a sore that does not heal or a new or changing skin lesion. These changes do not automatically indicate cancer, but they should not be ignored.

People taking medicines that increase sensitivity to sunlight, or those with existing skin conditions, may also need individualised sun-protection advice.

Sunscreen is a preventive skincare product, not a treatment for every skin condition. Persistent pigmentation, severe sunburn or other concerning symptoms should be assessed by a qualified healthcare professional.

Sun protection is a practical part of everyday skincare in Kenya and elsewhere. Understanding UV radiation, choosing a suitable broad-spectrum sunscreen and applying it correctly can help reduce sunburn and long-term skin damage.

The most effective routine combines sunscreen with shade, protective clothing and appropriate sunglasses. Rather than relying on expensive products or complicated beauty routines, focus on consistent, evidence-based habits that fit your daily activities.

Sources and Further Reading

• World Health Organization: Ultraviolet Radiation
• American Academy of Dermatology: How to Apply Sunscreen
• American Academy of Dermatology: Understanding Sunscreen Labels
• World Health Organization: Protecting Against Skin Cancer

Editorial note: This article provides general educational information and is not a substitute for individual medical advice.