Sunscreen is often something we remember when packing for a beach holiday or planning a day by the lake. But ultraviolet (UV) radiation can affect our skin during everyday activities, from walking the dog and eating lunch outside to gardening, hiking, skiing or exercising outdoors.
Protecting your skin from the sun is not simply about avoiding sunburn. It can help prevent premature skin ageing and, more importantly, reduce the risk of skin cancer.
This is particularly relevant in Switzerland. Between 2017 and 2021, approximately 3,300 people were diagnosed with melanoma each year, making it the fourth most commonly diagnosed cancer in the country.1 Our altitude, outdoor lifestyles and the reflection of UV radiation from snow and water can all increase our exposure.2,3
Key takeaways
- UV exposure can happen every day, even when it’s cool or cloudy.
- Sun protection helps reduce the risk of skin cancer and premature skin ageing.
- Altitude, snow and water can increase UV exposure in Switzerland.
- Choose broad-spectrum SPF 30+ and apply it generously.
- Sunscreen isn’t enough on its own — combine it with shade, clothing, a hat and sunglasses.
How does sunlight damage the skin?
The sun produces ultraviolet radiation, which we cannot see or feel but which can still damage our skin, even when the weather feels cool or the sky is cloudy.
There are two main types to be aware of:
- UVA penetrates more deeply into the skin and contributes to premature ageing, including wrinkles and pigmentation.
- UVB is the main cause of sunburn and can directly damage the DNA in skin cells, increasing the risk of skin cancer.3,4
UV damage accumulates over time. And although a tan is sometimes seen as a sign of health, it is actually the skin’s response to damage that has already occurred.5
Why is sun protection particularly important in Switzerland?
UV radiation becomes stronger at higher altitudes because there is less atmosphere to absorb it. Snow and water can further increase exposure by reflecting UV radiation towards the skin.2,3
This means sun protection matters not only on hot summer days, but also when hiking, climbing, skiing or spending time around water.
The UV index is a useful guide. As a general rule, active sun protection is recommended when the UV index reaches 3 or above.2,3
Sunscreen helps protect against skin cancer and premature ageing
UV radiation from the sun and artificial sources such as sunbeds is the primary cause of skin cancer.3 It contributes to melanoma, squamous cell carcinoma and basal cell carcinoma.7
Sunscreen cannot prevent every case of skin cancer, but regular and correct use reduces UV damage and is an important part of sun protection.3,7
It can also help protect against premature skin ageing. UVA radiation damages collagen and elastin, contributing over time to wrinkles, sunspots, uneven pigmentation and changes in skin texture.4,8
Does everyone need sunscreen?
People of every skin colour can experience UV-related skin damage and develop skin cancer.8 Higher levels of melanin provide some natural protection, but this is not complete.
Some medications can also make the skin particularly sensitive to sunlight, including certain antibiotics, acne treatments and diuretics. Check the patient information leaflet or ask your doctor or pharmacist if you are unsure.
Babies under six months should be kept out of direct sunlight and protected with shade and suitable clothing. For older children, combine shade and protective clothing with hats, sunglasses and sunscreen.6,7
Choosing the right sunscreen
With so many products available, choosing sunscreen can feel complicated. In practice, focus on a few essentials:
- Choose broad-spectrum protection against both UVA and UVB radiation.
- Use SPF 30 or higher. No sunscreen blocks 100% of UV radiation, so a high SPF should not be used as a reason to stay in the sun for longer.4
- Choose water-resistant sunscreen when swimming, exercising or sweating, and reapply according to the instructions.6
- Find a product you like using. Creams, lotions, gels, sticks and sprays can all be effective when used correctly. The best sunscreen is one you will apply generously and regularly.
Are you using enough?
Many people use considerably less sunscreen than they need.
Apply it generously around 15 minutes before going outside, remembering commonly missed areas such as the ears, nose, neck, hairline, lips, backs of the hands, tops of the feet and exposed scalp.
Reapply at least every two hours when outdoors, and sooner after swimming, sweating, exercising or towel drying.4,6
Make-up or moisturiser containing SPF can provide some protection but may not be applied thickly or evenly enough to provide the stated SPF. A separate sunscreen is more reliable when significant UV exposure is expected.
Don’t forget your sunscreen has a shelf life
Check the expiry date before using sunscreen. If there is no expiry date, the US Food and Drug Administration advises treating it as expired three years after purchase.6 If you cannot remember when you bought it, replacing it is the safest option.
Heat and direct sunlight can also affect sunscreen. Avoid leaving it for long periods in a hot car or direct sun; when outdoors, keep it in the shade or inside a bag where possible.6
Sunscreen is only one part of sun protection
Sunscreen works best alongside other simple measures:2,3,4
- Check the UV index.
- Seek shade, particularly around the middle of the day.
- Cover exposed skin with clothing.
- Wear a broad-brimmed hat and UV-protective sunglasses.
- Avoid sunbeds.
Make sun protection an everyday habit
Sun protection does not mean avoiding the outdoors. The aim is to enjoy being outside while reducing unnecessary UV exposure.
Check the UV index as you check the weather, keep sunscreen somewhere visible and make protection part of your routine whenever UV levels are high.
The best sunscreen is the one you use consistently and correctly. A few simple habits can help protect your skin from sunburn, premature ageing and more serious damage in the future.
References
- Federal Statistical Office. Healthcare: Pocket Statistics 2024. Neuchâtel: Swiss Federal Statistical Office; 2024. Available online
- Swiss Cancer League. The UV Index Shows When Sun Protection Is Particularly Important. 5 June 2025. Available online
- World Health Organization. Ultraviolet Radiation. 21 June 2022. Available online
- World Health Organization. Radiation: Protecting Against Skin Cancer. Updated 16 July 2024. Available online
- World Health Organization. Radiation: The Known Health Effects of Ultraviolet Radiation. Updated 16 July 2024. Available online
- US Food and Drug Administration. Sunscreen: How to Help Protect Your Skin from the Sun. Updated 9 June 2026. Available online
- Swiss Cancer League. Protection from the Sun: Key Points at a Glance. Bern: Swiss Cancer League. Available online
- American Academy of Dermatology. Sunscreen FAQs. Available online
