A second myth is that clouds stop UV radiation getting through. Even thick cloud covering the entire sky still allows 30 per cent of UV radiation through. The vital piece of advice is to use sun cream with a protection factor of at least 15 and to always fight the temptation to reduce the SPF as hot weather continues. Sunscreen should not be applied to babies under six months, so keep babies and toddlers out of the sun altogether. Try to ensure older children are never even slightly burnt.
Young skin is especially vulnerable to sun damage.
One survey reveals that children who suffer serious sunburn several times before the age of 15 have a high risk of developing skin cancer later on. The Imperial Cancer Research Fund advises parents and child minders to keep children out of the sun between 11am and 3pm, always remembering to schedule outdoor activities to avoid this time. For anyone still intent on a tan, go for a fake one rather than grilling for hours. A staggering 80 per cent of skin ageing is caused by the sun. Twenty minutes in the bathroom is not only safer than an hour toasting on a beach, you'll also look better for it.