Dr. Emily Alfonsi from Shade Skin Australia warns that UK skin is more vulnerable than ever this spring.
With parts of England experiencing temperatures hotter than Ibiza today, leading skin cancer expert Dr. Emily Alfonsi from Shade Skin Clinic is urging Brits to wear SPF on their face and exposed skin if heading outdoors– warning that months of low UV exposure have left skin highly susceptible to sun damage.
Why Your Skin is More at Risk Today
After six months of winter and low UV exposure, the sudden increase in temperature and sun intensity shocks the skin, making it more prone to sunburn, premature aging, and long-term damage, including skin cancer.
Dr. Alfonsi explains:
“People in the UK are coming out of a long period where UV exposure has been relatively low, and their skin has not been producing as much melanin for natural protection. When a heatwave like this hits, the skin is unprepared—meaning sunburn can happen faster and cause deeper damage than people realise.”
The Hidden Danger of Spring Sun
Many assume spring sunshine is less harmful than summer rays, but Dr. Alfonsi warns that is not the case:
- UV exposure can still cause skin damage, even when it is not peak summer
- A cool breeze can make it feel milder than it actually is, leading people to stay outside longer without realising they are burning
- Brits tend to underestimate UV intensity, as it is often cloudy or mild, meaning sunscreen is not a daily habit like it is in Australia
How to Protect Your Skin Today
With temperatures soaring past Ibiza’s, Dr. Alfonsi advises:
- Wear SPF 30+ on your face and exposed skin, even if you are just popping outside
- Reapply sunscreen every two hours if spending time outdoors
- Use sunglasses and a hat to protect your face and scalp
- Be extra cautious if you have fair skin or freckles, as these are more prone to burning
- Remember that UV damage is cumulative—even if you do not burn today, repeated exposure increases long-term skin cancer risk
“Do not make the mistake of thinking ‘it is only spring’—this kind of unexpected heat spike is exactly when people get caught out. The best habit you can adopt is applying SPF daily, just like you would in Australia,” says Dr. Alfonsi.
