Expert Warns of Area Where Most Forget to Apply SPF
We generally understand how important it is to wear sun protection every day to protect our faces from UV rays. But there’s another area of our bodies that’s exposed to the sun just as much as our faces that gets forgotten – our hands.
Recently, M&S conducted a nationally representative survey of 2,000 UK adults via Censuswide to unearth the problem. The survey found nearly 3 in 5 adults (59%) rarely or never protect their hands from the sun. Perhaps surprisingly, men were only slightly more likely than women to never wear SPF on their hands. That said, women were significantly more likely to say they always use SPF on their hands.
Gen Z (aged 18-28) appear to be more aware of the need to protect their hands from the sun. This generation were three times as likely as Baby Boomers (aged 61-79) to always wear SPF on their hands.
With summer on the horizon, Michelle Pinedo, head of product development at suncare brand Hello Sunday, explains why it’s so important to protect the skin on the hands: “The hands are one of the most exposed areas of the body and often one of the first to show signs of ageing. They receive daily UV exposure from driving, walking outside, and even through windows. Because the skin on the hands is thinner, it is more vulnerable to sun damage, pigmentation, and loss of elasticity over time.
“Common signs of sun damage include dark spots, hyperpigmentation, uneven skin tone, thinning skin, and dryness. Over time, fine lines and a loss of firmness can also appear, making the hands look older than the rest of the body.”
What are the different UV levels?
The World Health Organisation’s UV Index (UVI) runs from 1 to 20. It measures levels of UV radiation and indicates the degree of risk of sunburn. The higher the UVI, the greater the potential for damage to the skin and the less time it takes for harm to occur. The highest level recorded on the UVI in the UK is usually 8. Countries closer to the equator – including popular summer holiday destinations – often record levels above 8 and even 10.
The NHS recommend protecting your skin, including wearing sunscreen with at least SPF 30, when the UV index is above 3.
| UV level | UV rating | Recommended protection |
| 11-20 | Extreme | Extra protection required – Avoid being outside during midday hours, covering up with clothing and sunscreen is a must |
| 8-10 | Very high | |
| 6-7 | High | Protection required – Seek shade during midday hours, cover up with clothing and sunscreen |
| 3-5 | Moderate | |
| 1-2 | Low | No protection required – You can safely enjoy being outside |
Michelle explains the limitations of suncream and why it’s so common for people to neglect the skin on their hands:
“Regular sunscreen works effectively on the hands and provides the same UV protection. The difference is in sensorial experience and daily wearability. Many facial and body sunscreens can feel heavy, greasy, or leave a residue, which often discourages consistent reapplication on the hands.
“A hand cream with SPF is designed for everyday use: ultra-lightweight, non-greasy, and comfortable on the skin. It absorbs easily, making SPF reapplication feel effortless and enjoyable, particularly after hand washing or throughout the day.
“The best time to apply is in the morning as part of your daily skincare routine. You should then reapply throughout the day, especially after washing hands, using sanitizer, or every 2–3 hours if you’re outdoors. Consistency is key, since hands are constantly exposed and frequently washed.”