Can you burn in overcast weather

Due to the inability to see these lights, some individuals underestimate their potential to harm. Even though UV-B rays have greater potency, each type of ray is responsible for harm caused to our skin. Awful sunburns and the production of vitamin D are the results of UV-B rays. Many people have heard the claim that UV Rays are stronger on cloudy days, but often this thought is disregarded entirely as a myth.

It is unquestionable that human skin can get a sunburned on cloudy days, but are the UV rays actually stronger? The UV Index is directly proportional to the intensity of radiation one will receive during a particular time of the day and year. Although scientists do not have a concrete answer, they have few ideas surrounding this phenomenon. The second theory is the idea of UV rays being redirected as they pass through thin wisp-like clouds.

The combination of refraction and reflecting between varying clouds is resulting in a significantly greater UV strength at ground level. Anytime you are outdoors for any period of time — regardless of how sunny it is — you should be protecting your skin with sunscreen.

Connect With Us! Connect with us for more self tanner reviews, discounts and product giveaways! Popular on SelfTanning. Rate This Celebrity Self Tan! About SelfTanning. Follow Us Online. All rights reserved. Myth 2: A beach umbrella blocks the sun.

Reality: It's not foolproof. Sand reflects 17 percent of UV radiation, so you're still exposed, says Dr.

Nevertheless, it's smart to stay in the shade when the sun's rays are high; just make sure you're also slathered with sunscreen. Reality: Glass filters out only one kind of radiation -- UVB rays. But UVA rays, which penetrate deeper, can still get through. That's why many adults have more freckles on their left side than their right -- it's from UV exposure on that side through the car window when driving.

To protect yourself, apply sunscreen to any exposed areas like your hands, forearms, and face before getting into your car, especially in the spring and summer months, says Anthony Mancini, M. If you're buying a new car, consider one with tinted windows, which keep out almost four times more UVA light than regular ones.

You don't need to worry about putting on sunscreen when indoors unless you or your child spends most of your time near a window for example, if your child's desk is right next to one. More Videos The dos and don'ts of summer health Get the Lowdown on Vitamin D.