Temperatures are set high as UK braces for maximum temperatures of 40°C.
Plans for the first national heatwave emergency reportedly lined up to cope with rising temperatures as the UK braces for what could be the hottest day on record this weekend with forecast temperatures can reach 43°C in parts of the UK.
According to the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), a national emergency is declared when warm weather is so extreme that ‘sickness and death can occur among the fit and healthy’, as well as the most vulnerable.
The hottest day ever in the UK was the scorching 38.7°C temperature recorded at Cambridge Botanic Garden in July 2019.
Brace yourself for the blistering heat? Here’s a rundown of how often you should apply sunscreen and other top tips:
How often should you apply sunscreen?
The NHS recommends reapplying sunscreen every two hours as the sun can dry it off your skin
If you go into the water within this time, you should reapply it as soon as you get out.
As for the amount to apply, it is recommended to use two teaspoons of sunscreen if you only cover your head, arms and neck.
You will need two extra tablespoons if you cover your entire body while wearing a swimsuit.
If you will be going outside for a period of time where you can burn yourself, it is recommended that you apply sunscreen 30 minutes before going outside, and then again just before going outside.
Sunscreen should be applied to all exposed skin, including the face, neck, ears, and head if you have thinner or no hair, but a wide-brimmed hat is better.
Other sunscreen tips to follow
When buying sunscreen, the label must have a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 30 to protect against UVB, and at least 4-star UVA protection.
If you’re using a bottle of sunscreen you brought with you earlier to protect yourself, make sure the sunscreen isn’t past its expiration date, as most have a shelf life of two to three years.
You should take extra care to protect babies and children as their skin is much more sensitive than adults and children under six months should be kept out of direct sunlight.
It is also recommended to spend time in the shade when the sun is strongest to protect yourself.
In the UK this is between 11am and 3pm from March to October.
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