What Are the UV Exposure Categories?

Have you ever wondered how much UV is too much? This UV exposure table details the different levels of UV exposure and what they mean to you. Learn more about the effects of UV exposure.

  • 0-2

    Minimal—An index reading of 0 to 2 means minimal danger from the sun's UV rays for the average person.

  • 3-4

    Low—An index reading of 3 to 4 means you may be at risk of skin damage from the sun's rays. Many people can experience a sunburn in 45 minutes.

  • 5-6

    Moderate—An index reading of 5 to 6 means you may be at some measurable risk of skin damage due to the sun. Many people can experience a burn in only 30 minutes.

  • 7-9

    High—An index reading of 7 to 9 means you may be at high risk of harm from unprotected exposure to the sun. Many people can burn in under 15 minutes.

  • 10+

    Very High—An index reading of 10 and above means you are at maximum risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. Many people burn in as little as 10 minutes without protection.

Condition Spotlight

Press Release Skin Cancer Screening a Valuable Tool against Disease Watch Video
Keeping Close Watch Can Catch Skin Cancer Early
Keeping Close Watch Can Catch Skin Cancer Early Play Video | 3:18
Stanford Hospital's Dr. Kevin Wang Discusses Skin Cancer Prevention and Treatment
Stanford Hospital's Dr. Kevin Wang Discusses Skin Cancer Prevention and Treatment Play Video | 1:12:57
Your Questions Answered: Skin Cancer Watch Video
Dr. Susan Swetter on Melanoma, the Most Deadly Form of Skin Cancer Watch Video

Clinical Trials

Clinical trials are research studies that evaluate a new medical approach, device, drug, or other treatment. As a Stanford Health Care patient, you may have access to the latest, advanced clinical trials.

Open trials refer to studies currently accepting participants. Closed trials are not currently enrolling, but may open in the future.

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