Skin Health and Sun Safety at Work

Alice Monk
2 days ago
3 min read

Most of us don’t give our skin much thought until something feels off - dryness, irritation, or the occasional bit of sunburn. But day to day, our skin is doing a lot to protect us, especially at work.

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With regular exposure to things like sunlight, handwashing and changing environments, it’s worth paying a bit of attention to how we look after our skin - both in and outside of work.

Why skin health matters

Your skin acts as a barrier against physical, chemical and environmental hazards. At work, it can be exposed to a range of factors including:

Sunlight (UV radiation)
Irritants such as cleaning products or chemicals
Frequent handwashing or sanitising
Temperature changes and dry air

Over time, these exposures can lead to dryness, irritation, dermatitis, or more serious conditions if not managed.

Understanding sun exposure

In the UK, the sun is strong enough to cause skin damage between March and October, particularly between 11am and 3pm. Ultraviolet (UV) radiation can damage skin even on cooler or cloudy days.

Too much UV exposure increases the risk of skin cancer, including melanoma, which is one of the most common cancers in the UK despite being highly preventable.

People who work outdoors - such as construction workers, gardeners, drivers and site-based teams - may be at higher risk due to prolonged exposure. However, even people who don’t work outside need to be mindful of incidental exposure (for example during commutes, breaks or outdoor meetings) which can add up over time.

Sun safety: simple, practical habits

Protecting your skin from the sun doesn’t have to be complicated. Small, consistent habits can make a big difference.

Try this:

Check the daily UV index (available on most weather apps)
Spend time in the shade during peak sun hours where possible
Wear clothing that covers shoulders and upper arms
Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30 or above) on exposed skin
Reapply sunscreen regularly, especially after sweating or washing
Wear a hat and sunglasses if your role allows

These steps can be adapted depending on your role, environment and what’s practical for your working day.

Looking after your skin at work

Sun exposure is only one part of skin health. Everyday work activities can also affect the skin’s natural barrier.

Frequent handwashing, use of gloves, or contact with irritants can lead to dry, cracked or sore skin — particularly on the hands.

Try this:

Use a gentle, fragrance-free moisturiser regularly
Dry hands thoroughly after washing
Use appropriate gloves and PPE for tasks involving chemicals or irritants
Take note of any persistent dryness, redness or itching

Early action can help prevent minor irritation from developing into more significant skin conditions such as dermatitis.

What to look out for

Being aware of changes in your skin can help with early identification of potential issues.

It’s worth keeping an eye out for:

New moles or changes in existing moles (size, shape, colour, itching or bleeding)
Patches of skin that don’t heal
Persistent dryness, redness or irritation

If you notice anything unusual or ongoing, it’s sensible to seek advice from a GP or healthcare professional.

Creating a supportive workplace approach

Employers and managers can play an important role in supporting skin health and sun safety at work, particularly for outdoor roles.

This might include:

Providing access to sunscreen or shaded areas
Encouraging breaks out of direct sunlight where possible
Including sun safety in risk assessments and health and safety discussions
Promoting awareness of skin health more broadly

Creating a culture where these habits feel normal also matters. Simple actions like applying sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, or taking shade breaks should be seen as part of everyday health and safety - not something that needs to be justified.

When people feel comfortable taking these steps without drawing attention, they’re more likely to do them consistently.

For office-based teams, simple reminders around hydration, skincare and taking breaks can also support overall skin health.

Looking after your skin at work isn’t about being perfect or avoiding the sun entirely. It’s about understanding your level of exposure and making small, practical adjustments that fit your day. Over time, these habits can help protect your skin, reduce discomfort, and lower the risk of more serious health issues - both at work and beyond.

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