How Bad Is My Sunburn? Take the Sun Safety Quiz
Quick, free sun safety quiz to test your knowledge. Instant tips and results.
This quiz helps you judge how bad your sunburn is, read the UV index, and pick smarter protection. In a few minutes you will test key sun facts and get simple tips you can use today. If you want to explore more, try our dermatology quiz questions, take a risk awareness quiz, or check in with a health and wellness quiz.
Study Outcomes
- Analyze Sunburn Severity - Evaluate different degrees of sunburn by recognizing key symptoms and UV risk factors. 
- Apply SPF Guidelines - Determine the appropriate SPF level for various skin types and outdoor conditions to maximize protection. 
- Identify Sun Safety Facts - Recall essential sun safety trivia, including UV index categories and peak exposure times. 
- Evaluate Sunburn Relief Methods - Assess and choose effective cooling and hydration techniques to soothe sunburned skin. 
- Develop a Sun Safety Plan - Create a personalized strategy incorporating shade use, clothing choices, and timing to prevent future sunburns. 
Cheat Sheet
- Understanding the UV Index - The UV Index measures daily ultraviolet radiation intensity on a 0 - 11+ scale, with higher numbers indicating greater risk of sunburn (source: EPA). A UV Index of 6 or above requires extra protection like SPF 30+ sunscreen and wide-brimmed hats. Remember the mnemonic "Low, Medium, High - Gear Up to Defy the Sky!" 
- SPF Math and Broad-Spectrum Protection - SPF (Sun Protection Factor) tells you how much longer you can stay in the sun without burning: if you burn in 10 minutes unaided, SPF 30 extends that time to about 300 minutes. Always choose broad-spectrum formulas to block both UVA and UVB rays (American Academy of Dermatology). A quick formula: "Your Burn Time × SPF = Safe Sun Minutes." 
- Peak Sun Hours and Timing - The sun's rays are strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., so plan outdoor activities outside those hours (WHO recommendation). Even on cloudy days, up to 80% of UV rays penetrate, so apply protection regardless of the forecast. 
- Shade, Clothing, and Accessories - Use the "Shadow Rule": if your shadow is shorter than you, UV levels are high and you need shade or UPF-rated clothing. Hats with a 3-inch brim can block up to 50% of direct sunlight to your face and neck (Skin Cancer Foundation). Sunglasses with UV400 lenses shield your eyes from 99 - 100% of UVA and UVB rays. 
- Cooling and Treating Early Sunburns - At the first sign of redness, apply cool compresses or take a lukewarm bath to reduce inflammation (Mayo Clinic). Follow up with aloe vera gel or an over-the-counter 1% hydrocortisone cream, and always stay hydrated to support skin repair. Track pain levels and blister development to know when professional care is needed.