Does a UV sticker protect you from sunburn?

Stickers that change colour when it is time to reapply sunscreen are popping up on social media. In HLN, Dr Griet Voet assesses whether such a sticker really helps.

She first points out that many Belgians do not apply sunscreen, and that those who do often use too little product or reapply too rarely. A study showed that users of the sticker reapplied more often, yet still got more sunburnt, possibly because of poor application technique.

Dr Voet sees the sticker as a reminder at most. On cloudy days it changes colour more slowly, even though you can still burn, and it does not take skin type into account. She fears it gives a false sense of security; a timer on your phone does the same job.

• Reapply every two hours, preferably with SPF 50.

• Reapply after swimming or heavy sweating.

• Use enough: about two tablespoons for the body and a coin-sized amount for the face.

• Stay in the shade in the strong midday sun, with or without a sticker.