Sun protection in Torrevieja: the simple holiday routine

Start protecting at UV index 3

The UV index describes the strength of ultraviolet radiation. The World Health Organization recommends sun protection when the index reaches 3 or above.

Do not judge UV exposure by how hot it feels. Water, sand and bright surfaces can reflect radiation, and shade reduces exposure without removing it completely.

• Check the UV value before a long outdoor day.
• Use shade, clothing, a hat and UV-protective sunglasses as well as sunscreen.
• When practical, move long outdoor plans away from the strongest midday sun.

Sunscreen: SPF, amount and reapplication

Choose broad-spectrum UVA and UVB protection with at least SPF 30. SPF 50 or 50+ offers more UVB protection, but it does not compensate for using too little.

As a rough adult whole-body guide, the NHS gives about 6 to 8 teaspoons of sunscreen. Applying too little substantially reduces real-world protection.

• Cover all exposed skin, including ears, neck, feet and exposed scalp.
• During prolonged sun exposure, reapply roughly every two hours.
• Reapply after swimming, towel drying or heavy sweating, even when the product is water resistant.
• Do not use sunscreen as a reason to stay deliberately longer in strong sun.

Children at the beach

For children, combine shade, light covering clothing, a hat and sunscreen. Babies under six months should be kept out of direct strong sunlight.

A parasol is useful, but reflected and scattered UV means it is not complete protection on its own.

• Build water and shade breaks into a long beach day.
• Remember sunscreen again after swimming and towel drying.
• Avoid sunburn rather than trying to manage it after it happens.

If you do get sunburn

Get out of the sun and cool the skin gently with cool water or a cool shower. Keep burned skin out of strong sun while it recovers.

If you feel unwell or develop severe swelling or blisters, seek medical advice rather than treating it as a normal part of a beach holiday.

Simple beach-bag checklist

A repeatable routine is more useful than buying a different product for every beach day.

• Broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen
• Hat or cap and UV-protective sunglasses
• Water
• Light covering layer for longer exposure
• A reminder to reapply after swimming or around every two hours during prolonged exposure