The UV index, not the temperature, shows when kids need sun protection

What the research found

Australian children's hospital guidance says you cannot see or feel UV radiation. Some hot days have low UV levels, while some cold days have high ones. It says that if the UV Index forecast is 3 or more, your child needs sun protection. It also says to keep babies under 12 months out of direct sun at that level.

World Health Organization guidance describes the UV Index as a measure of UV radiation and a tool to alert people to when they need sun protection. It says protective measures are recommended at 3 or higher. Below 2, the risk of damage is limited, and under normal circumstances no protective measures are needed.

Knowing the index doesn't always change what people do. A 2003 Swedish randomised trial of 3200 people found UV Index information did not reduce sunbathing or sunburn more than general written sun advice. A 2026 US survey of 4,053 adults found over 75% had heard of the index, but only 6.7% had checked it in the past month. A 2018 New Zealand study found the UV Index was high enough to warrant sun protection in most places children visited, yet only 4.3% of people wore sun-protective hats.

What it doesn’t mean

• This doesn't mean temperature is irrelevant to comfort or heat safety. It only means temperature is a poor guide to UV risk.
• The UV Index forecast is the daily peak, around midday. UV levels change through the day, so check the forecast times, not just the number.
• Trials haven't shown that the index alone changes behaviour. It works best alongside slip, slop, slap, seek and slide habits. Talk to a GP or child health nurse about babies or children with very fair skin or other skin concerns.