Can you rely on UV stickers to avoid sunburn?
HLN, 18 July 2023
Do UV stickers protect you from sunburn? In HLN, Dr Griet Voet explains what they can do, where they fall short and how to apply sunscreen properly.
UV stickers turn purple when it is time to reapply sunscreen. HLN asked Dr Griet Voet whether such a sticker really protects you.
An Australian study shows that users reapply more often, but also get sunburnt more often, possibly because they apply too little or apply it poorly. Dr Voet points to the limitations: the sticker has no sebaceous or sweat glands like the skin, changes colour less on cloudy days and does not take your skin type into account. She fears it gives a false sense of security; a timer on your phone works just as well as a reminder.
More important is applying sunscreen correctly: enough product, preferably SPF 50, every two hours and again after swimming or sweating. Around midday, it is best to seek the shade.
Key advice
Use enough sunscreen: for the face, about the size of a 2-euro coin.
Reapply every two hours, preferably with SPF 50.
Reapply after swimming or sweating.
Stay in the shade around midday.
“I am a bit sceptical about it myself, because it can give a false sense of security” — Dr Griet Voet