National Sunscreen Day: HSE reminds public that sunscreen is essential – but not a suit of armour

On National Sunscreen Day, the HSE National Cancer Control Programme (NCCP), working with Healthy Ireland, is reminding people that sunscreen is not as the sole line of defence in protecting skin from harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation. Sunscreen should always be used alongside other sun protective measures such as clothing and shade to protect against skin cancer.

As part of the wider SunSmart campaign, the HSE and Healthy Ireland are encouraging people of all ages to enjoy the outdoors safely by understanding how to choose, apply, store and use sunscreen correctly, and by remembering that no sunscreen provides 100% protection against skin damage or skin cancer.

Maria McEnery, Cancer Prevention Officer, HSE’s NCCP, said: “Sunscreen is an important tool, but it works best when combined with covering up and seeking shade, especially if outdoors between 11am and 3pm from April to September when UV from the sun is strongest. Being SunSmart is about daily habits that reduce your risk of skin cancer over a lifetime. Sunscreen does not block all UV radiation, and no product can fully prevent skin damage. Relying solely on sunscreen can lead to longer sun exposure, increasing the risk of sunburn and long-term skin damage.”

Using sunscreen correctly

To get the best protection from sunscreen, the HSE and the HPRA (Health Products Regulatory Authority) advises:

• Choose the right product: Select a broad-spectrum sunscreen that protects against both UVA and UVB rays, is water resistant and provides a minimum SPF of 30 for adults and 50 for children.
• Apply generously: Most people do not apply enough. Adults need around 6–8 teaspoons (about a shot glass) to cover the whole body.
• Apply early: Put sunscreen on 20–30 minutes before going outdoors to allow it to bind to the skin.
• Reapply regularly: Reapply at least every two hours, and more frequently after swimming, sweating or towel-drying, even if the product is labelled “water-resistant.

Sunscreen is not enough on its own. Sunscreen should be the last form of protection, not the first.

People are encouraged to:

• Wear long-sleeved clothing, wide-brimmed hats and UV-protective sunglasses
• Seek shade, particularly between 11am and 3pm, when UV rays are strongest
• Keep babies and young children out of direct sunlight

The HPRA is Ireland’s regulatory authority for cosmetic products, including sunscreen, with responsibility for monitoring and ensuring their safety on the Irish market,

Lisa Byrne, Acting Market Surveillance Manager at the HPRA, explains: “In Ireland, sunscreens are generally regulated as cosmetic products. The HPRA helps protect consumers by overseeing the safety of sunscreens sold in Ireland and by ensuring they comply with EU requirements. This includes clear and accurate labelling so people can understand how to use them safely and effectively. When choosing a sunscreen, consumers should only purchase products that protect against both UVA and UVB rays and use the product in line with the instructions on the label.”

HPRA tips for choosing the correct sunscreen:

• Only purchase sunscreen from reputable, trusted outlets. Products sold through unofficial channels may not meet safety standards or comply with EU regulations.
• Always look for a product with broad‑spectrum protection, including both SPF and UVA protection, and choose a level appropriate for your skin type.
• Always follow the storage conditions labelled on the pack.
• Follow the instructions on the label carefully, limit sun exposure and reapply regularly.
• Do not use sunscreen beyond its recommended usage period or expiry date. This may be indicated by an ‘open jar’ symbol or a ‘best before’ date.

Additional guidance on sunscreen use is available on the HPRA website - hpra.ie/sunscreen

Skin cancer is one of the most common cancers in Ireland, and most cases are preventable. Through the SunSmart campaign, the HSE NCCP and Healthy Ireland continue to promote simple, practical steps people can take to reduce their risk. For more information on being SunSmart, visit www.hse.ie/sunsmart.