Does UV radiation reach your skin even when you’re in the shade?

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Many people think that shade offers complete protection against UV radiation. Shade reduces direct sunlight, but some UV radiation is still present. Even under a parasol, in the garden under a tree or on a cloudy day, your skin is still exposed to UV radiation. In this article, we explain how UV radiation works in the shade and why protection remains important even there.

Why does UV radiation reach the shade?

UV radiation works differently from heat or visible sunlight. Some UV rays reach your skin directly from the sun, but UV radiation can also be reflected off surfaces such as water, sand, stones or windows. This means you are not fully protected just because you are sitting in the shade. Especially on sunny days, UV radiation in the shade can still affect your skin.

Shade reduces UV radiation, but does not block it completely

Shade is a clever way to limit direct exposure to the sun. However, shade does not block all UV radiation.

The amount of UV radiation in the shade depends on various factors, such as the time of day, the strength of the sun and your surroundings. Under a tree or a parasol, you’ll usually be exposed to less direct sunlight, but some UV rays will still reach you.

Many people think that sun protection is less important in the shade, whilst your skin is still exposed to UV radiation.

Everyday moments spent in the shade count

On hot or sunny days, many people deliberately seek out the shade. Think of having lunch under a parasol, relaxing under a tree or playing with children in a shady garden.

These spots feel less sunny, which is why many people are less likely to think about sun protection. However, your skin is still exposed to UV radiation even in the shade. As a result, your exposure to the sun can build up unnoticed during everyday moments spent outdoors. This can affect your skin in the long term.

Sun protection remains important, even in the shade

Sun protection is about more than just applying sun cream. Particularly when spending longer periods outdoors, sun cream isn’t always reapplied when necessary.

Extra protection through clothing can therefore be a practical addition to everyday life. With UV-STOP Protection Wash, you can give ordinary clothing UV protection of up to UPF 50+, meaning the fabric helps to block UV rays more effectively whilst you’re outdoors.

Being mindful of UV radiation

UV radiation isn’t just something to be aware of when you’re spending a day at the beach or on holiday. Your skin is exposed to it during everyday outdoor activities too, even when you’re sitting in the shade. By being mindful of sun protection and combining UV-protective clothing with sun cream, you can give your skin extra protection during your daily outdoor activities.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is there UV radiation in the shade?

Yes, even in the shade, your skin is still exposed to UV radiation. Shade reduces direct sunlight, but does not completely block UV rays.

Can you get sunburnt in the shade?

Yes, that’s possible. On sunny days in particular, UV radiation can still reach your skin via reflection from, for example, water, sand or stones.

Does a parasol provide complete protection against UV radiation?

No, a parasol offers extra protection against direct sunlight, but UV rays can still reach your skin from the surroundings.

Why is sun protection still important when you’re in the shade?

Many people are less likely to think about protection when they are sitting in the shade. However, UV radiation is still present, meaning your skin is still exposed.

Can clothing help protect against UV radiation in the shade?

Yes, clothing can offer extra protection against UV rays. With UV-STOP Protection Wash, you can make ordinary clothing UV-resistant up to UPF 50+, ensuring your skin remains better protected during everyday outdoor activities.

Is UV radiation weaker in the shade?

Yes, shade reduces the amount of direct UV radiation. However, UV radiation does not disappear completely, so protection remains important.

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