How to Avoid Sunburn Using a UV Monitor

It is possible to reduce the risk of sunburn while being out in the sun with the use of an Oregon Scientific UV monitor. What it does is that it measures the current UV level and recommends a safe exposure time for you. The unit also takes into account your skin type and the SPF (sun protection factor) of your sunscreen before calculating the exposure time. It is a cool hand-held gadget, particular for those who get sunburns easily.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Oregon Scientific UV Monitor

1. First let the unit know your own skin type from the four options provided. These are 1. Never tans, always burns 2. Sometimes tans, usually burns 3. Usually tans, sometimes burns 4. Always tans, rarely burns.

2. Next enter the SPF of the sunscreen that you are using into the unit.

3. Third start the UV measurement. It takes about 4 seconds. The unit then displays the UV level from one of the following values: Low, Medium, High, Very High, Extremely High and Over Range. The UV monitor also displays the suggested exposure duration. The higher the current UV level, the shorter the suggested exposure duration and vice versa.

4. Finally start the exposure timer which begins the countdown. When the suggested duration has passed, the alarm sounds. Now you know it is time to go inside.

Tips & Warnings

• While the timer is running, the unit measures the UV level every 10 minutes. It will suggest a new exposure time if the UV level has changed in the meantime.
• The timer can also be paused and restarted. If you need to go indoor for a few minutes, just pause the timer. Restart the timer when you go outside again.

Resources

• UV Monitor