More Than Half of Brits Get Sunburnt Accidentally

A survey conducted by the British Skin Foundation (BSF) has found that 51% of Brits have accidentally sunburned themselves, underscoring the need for increased awareness and education on sun safety measures.

Dr Anjali Mahto, a consultant dermatologist and BSF spokesperson, commented, “Sunburn is an acute inflammatory reaction resulting from over-exposure to ultraviolet radiation. It causes direct DNA damage, leading to inflammation and the death of skin cells. Sunburn during childhood or adolescence can double the risk of developing melanoma, the most serious type of skin cancer, in later life.”

The survey also revealed that 41% of respondents would appreciate reminders about skin protection during the summer months. To address this, the BSF has launched the ‘More, More, More’ sun safety campaign, aimed at encouraging the public to adopt three key protective measures: wearing more protective clothing, using more sunscreen, and seeking more shade.

Despite the apparent willingness to adopt sun safety measures, a quarter of those surveyed admitted to forgetting about them and needing regular reminders. The BSF’s campaign aims to provide the necessary nudge for the British public to prioritise their skin health.

The survey also highlighted confusion over sunscreen usage, with nearly 24% saying they find sunscreen labels confusing and 18% saying they don’t understand how SPF ratings work. In addition, 13% didn’t understand UVA and UVB, and 20% didn’t know which type of sunscreen to use. 16% were unsure how often to apply or reapply sunscreen, and the same number didn’t understand the difference between chemical and mineral sunscreens.