There are 6 skin types, from very fair to very dark. The skin type can be determined on the basis of external characteristics, such as eye and hair colour, as well as the reaction to UV radiation. Important: The sun protection should be adapted to your own skin type. Fair skin generally needs more sun protection (at least 50+) than darker skin. You can easily determine your skin type by looking at the chart below. 

Find out which skin type you are.

If you have very fair skin, possibly freckles, a light eye colour, reddish or blonde hair colour, and hardly any tanning, you are classified as skin type I. So, protect yourself particularly well from the sun. A sunscreen product with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 50+ is recommended. And you should never lie in the sun for longer than 10 minutes! 

UV rays don’t just reach the skin when we are exposed to direct sunlight. Even in the shade, enough UV rays can reach the skin through reflection to cause skin damage. The skin can be damaged even then, so PLEASE apply sunscreen to prevent sunburn in the first place. 

In some cases, however, you can do without a sun protection factor, e.g., in Hamburg’s “Schietwetter” and any indoor activities. 

It is best to avoid direct sunlight, e.g., by staying in the shade and wearing longer clothing and a head covering. In general, the midday sun should be avoided between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. – the intensity of the sun is strongest at this time. 

A sunscreen product (min. 50+) should be applied 30 minutes before sunbathing. Reapply at least every 2 hours. Don’t forget the ears, lips, and the backs of the feet. Always moisturize the skin after sunbathing, e.g., with special after-sun products.