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Common questions about UVR
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Can you feel UVR?
When people state that the sun has "sting in it" they are confusing infrared (IR) radiation with UVR. The skin detects IR radiation as a sensation of heat but it does not detect UVR. If enough UVR exposure has occurred to cause sunburn, the damaged skin may become more sensitive to IR.
Is temperature related to UVR?
Solar ultraviolet radiation (UVR) levels are generally not related to temperature. There can be high UVR levels even on cool days unless there is considerable cloud cover. UVR and temperature peak at different times of the day. UVR is usually highest around midday but the temperature is often highest later in the afternoon. In general there is a misconception that high temperatures and UVR intensity are related as most people tend to get sunburnt when temperatures are lower. People tend to assume they require less protection from the sun when temperatures are lower. The intensity of UVR can be high on cool clear days as well as hot days during certain times of the year. Without knowing the level of UVR people may incorrectly use temperature as a guide to the level of sun protection required.
What is windburn?
There is no such thing as "windburn". The wind may dry the skin but it does not burn it. Overexposure to UVR can increase the skins sensitivity. What is described, as windburn is actually sunburn.
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