← Back to Tools☀️ UV Index Guide

UV Index Guide & Risk Chart

Understand exactly what each UV Index level means for your skin — and what clothing and gear you need at each level.

UV Index Scale

0–2

3–5

6–7

8–10

11+

Low

Moderate

High

Very High

Extreme

😌

UV Index 0–2 — Low

Unprotected safe time: 60+ min

Clothing

Regular clothing is fine. Sunglasses optional.

Activity Advice

All outdoor activities safe without precaution.

UPF Recommendation

UPF 15+ adequate

😎

UV Index 3–5 — Moderate

Unprotected safe time: 45–60 min

Clothing

Long-sleeved shirt or sunscreen SPF 30+. Hat recommended.

Activity Advice

Limit midday sun (10am–4pm) for fair skin.

UPF Recommendation

UPF 25+ recommended

🧢

UV Index 6–7 — High

Unprotected safe time: 25–40 min

Clothing

UPF 30+ shirt, wide-brim hat, UV-blocking sunglasses.

Activity Advice

Reduce exposure 10am–4pm. Seek shade during peak hours.

UPF Recommendation

UPF 30+ recommended

⚠️

UV Index 8–10 — Very High

Unprotected safe time: 15–25 min

Clothing

UPF 50+ shirt essential. Hat + sunscreen SPF 50+ on exposed skin.

Activity Advice

Avoid peak sun hours. Stay in shade whenever possible.

UPF Recommendation

UPF 50+ essential

🔥

UV Index 11+ — Extreme

Unprotected safe time: <10 min

Clothing

Full UPF 50+ coverage head-to-toe. SPF 50+ sunscreen. UV umbrella.

Activity Advice

Stay indoors during peak hours if possible.

UPF Recommendation

UPF 50+ essential — maximum coverage

📍 How to Check Your Local UV Index

Check your daily UV index on weather.com or your phone's weather app. UV peaks between 10am–4pm and is highest in summer, at higher altitudes, near reflective surfaces (water, sand, snow), and near the equator.