UV Index

What is the
UV Index?

The UV index tells you how strong the sun's UV radiation is, taking into account things like the sun's position, the thickness of the ozone layer, cloud cover, and elevation. Running from 0 (low) to 11+ (extreme), this scale helps you decide how much sun protection you need.

A higher UV index means stronger UV rays and a greater risk of skin damage, so good sun protection becomes even more important. Here's what each level means for you:

0-2
(Low)

Minimal risk. Minimal protection, like a good pair of sunglasses, is enough for most people.

3-5
(Moderate)

Moderate risk. Use sunscreen and protective clothing so your skin stays comfortably protected.

6-7
(High)

High risk. Apply SPF 50+ sunscreen generously and try to spend time in the shade whenever you can.

8-10
(Very high)

Very high risk. It's best to avoid direct sun, wear protective clothing and use a very high SPF (SPF50+) sun cream.

11+
(Extreme)

Extreme risk. Stay indoors if you can, or use maximum protection when you have to be outside.

What is the UV Index today:
Search local UV Index

The UV Index is updated every day to guide you on how strong the sun’s UV rays are in your area. A higher number means stronger rays. Check today’s UV Index for your region and take the right steps to protect yourself while you’re outdoors.

NIVEA Sun Protect & Moisture Pump Spray SPF 50+

The NIVEA Sun Protect & Moisture Pump Spray SPF 50+ gives you advanced sun protection with a very high SPF (SPF50+) to help shield your skin against harmful UVB rays, as well as UVA protection. The formula hydrates and moisturises your skin for up to 48 hours* and is enriched with Vitamin E, Vitamin C and Hyaluron. On top of that, it’s water-resistant and easy for you to apply.

Make sure you apply sunscreen generously on all exposed parts of your body, and reapply every two hours, or more often after swimming or sweating.

*Instrumental evaluation, 35 women, 2022

Protect & Moisture Lotion

Facts Overview

What is the UV Index?
The UV Index measures how strong the sun's UV radiation is, and shows you the potential risk to your skin.

Benefits of UV Protection:
Helps reduce the risk of skin damage, helps prevent premature ageing caused by the sun, and supports a more even skin tone.

How to Protect:
Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a high to very high SPF (SPF 30 or 50+), wear protective clothing, and try to avoid peak sun hours (10 am - 4 pm).

Who Needs Protection?
Everyone should practise sun safety all year round to minimise the effects of UV exposure – including children and babies.

What is a
UV Ray?

Moderate sun exposure plays a vital role in Vitamin D production, which is essential for calcium absorption, bone health, immune function, and mood regulation. However, while your body is making Vitamin D, the sun also exposes you to ultraviolet (UV) radiation, which can harm your skin. Sun protection is essential, and studies have shown that using it has only a limited impact on Vitamin D levels.

A UV ray is a form of electromagnetic radiation emitted by the sun. While it’s invisible to the naked eye, a UV ray can have a real impact on your skin, causing tanning, sunburn, and other changes. Protecting your skin starts with understanding how a UV ray works, using sunscreen properly, and using the UV Index to make smart choices for safe sun exposure.

Types of
UV Rays

There are three main types of UV rays, and each one has a different effect on your skin:

1
UVA Rays:
These penetrate deep into your skin and can cause long-term skin damage such as photoageing or premature ageing.

2
UVB Rays:
These are the main cause of sunburn and play a big role in the development of skin conditions such as skin cancers.

3
UVC Rays:
The ozone layer filters out almost all UVC light, so it doesn’t reach the Earth's surface – which is why your sunscreen doesn’t need to protect you against it.

UV rays and
Skin Health

UV rays can have both positive and negative effects on your skin, in the short and long term. Short-term exposure to UV light can leave you with sunburn or a temporary tan, while long-term exposure can lead to loss of skin elasticity, dark spots, wrinkles and an increased risk of skin conditions.

Explore the
NIVEA UV Face Specialist Invisible Daily Fluid SPF 50+

Discover an easy, everyday solution for high-performance sun protection with the NIVEA UV Face Specialist Invisible Daily Fluid SPF 50+.

This lightweight, fast-absorbing formula offers superior broad-spectrum UVA and UVB defence, shielding your skin from harmful sun rays while helping to prevent premature ageing and skin damage. Designed for daily use, it features key ingredients like Licochalcone A, an antioxidant that helps support your skin's own defences.

With its ultra-light texture and invisible finish, it fits seamlessly into your skincare routine and works well under make-up.

Sun Protection for
Children and Babies

It’s really important to remember that skin protection is essential all year round for vulnerable groups like children and babies. Their skin is more delicate and more likely to be damaged by UV radiation. To protect them:

Seek Shade

Keep children and babies out of direct sunlight, especially between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.

Protective Clothing

Dress them in lightweight, long-sleeved protective clothing and wide-brimmed hats to shield their skin and face. And don’t forget to protect their eyes with sunglasses.

Sunscreen

Use a very high SPF, broad-spectrum sunscreen like NIVEA Kids Protect & Care Lotion, designed specifically for delicate skin. It offers reliable sun protection while being gentle, skin-friendly and water-resistant – ideal for active kids.

Education

Teach children about sun safety from an early age so they can build healthy habits for life.

Summary

When you understand UV light and use sunscreen correctly, you can enjoy being outdoors more safely. By checking the UV Index and taking simple protective steps, you can keep your skin looking healthy and lower the risk of long-term damage.