Healthy New Jersey

Governor Mikie Sherrill • Lt. Governor Dr. Dale G. Caldwell

World Cup NJ

Sun Safety Guide

Sun Safety

Protecting yourself from UV exposure during outdoor World Cup events. Know the risks, use the right protection, and stay safe in the sun.

Check the UV Index before match day at EPA UV Index or AirNow.gov. UV radiation can damage skin in as little as 15 minutes on a high UV day.

UV Index Guide

UV radiation is invisible but can cause significant skin damage within minutes. During World Cup matches in New Jersey, peak UV levels typically occur between 11:00 AM and 3:00 PM.

Understanding the UV Index

Check the UV Index before heading out. The higher the number, the greater the risk of skin damage.

1–2

Low Risk

Wear sunglasses on bright days. No other protection usually needed.

3–5

Moderate Risk

Apply SPF 15+. Stay in shade during midday hours.

6–7

High Risk

Protection essential. Wear a hat, sunglasses, and SPF 30+.

8–10

Very High Risk

Minimize sun exposure. Reapply SPF every 90 minutes. Seek shade.

11+

Extreme Risk

Avoid direct sun if possible. Full protection required at all times.

Minimum recommended

SPF 15+

Use broad-spectrum sunscreen, water-resistant sunscreen that protects against both UVA and UVB rays. Apply two tablespoons for your body and a nickel-sized amount for your face. Do not forget your ears, neck, the tops of your feet, legs, and scalp.

EPA Sun Safety Tips

SPF Best Practices

Sunscreen is only effective if applied correctly. Follow these guidelines to get the most protection.

  • Apply before going out. Apply sunscreen 15 to 30 minutes before sun exposure to allow it to fully absorb into the skin.
  • Reapply every 2 hours. Even water-resistant formulas lose effectiveness. Reapply every two hours or immediately after swimming or heavy sweating.
  • Use enough. Most people apply too little. Use enough to cover exposed skin on the body.
  • Check the expiration date. Sunscreen typically expires 12 months after opening. Expired sunscreen may offer reduced protection.
  • Clouds do not block UV. Up to 80 percent of UV rays pass through clouds. Apply sunscreen on overcast match days too.

For more on choosing and using sunscreen visit American Academy of Dermatology sunscreen FAQs.

Essential Protective Gear

Sunscreen alone is not enough. Physical protection significantly reduces UV exposure throughout the day.

Wide-Brimmed Hat

A hat with a brim of at least 3 inches shades the face, ears, and back of the neck — areas frequently missed by sunscreen.

UV400 Eyewear

Sunglasses labeled UV400 or 100% UV protection block both UVA and UVB rays and protect the eyes and surrounding skin.

UPF 50+ Clothing

Clothing with a UPF rating of 50 or higher blocks over 98% of UV radiation. Light colors and tight weaves offer the best protection.

Sensitive Skin and Children

Some groups need extra protection or different products when spending time outdoors.

Sensitive skin

Look for mineral-based sunscreens containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. These sit on top of the skin rather than absorbing into it and are less likely to cause irritation or allergic reactions.

Children and infants

Keep infants under 6 months out of direct sunlight entirely. For older children, use UPF 50+ clothing and wide-brimmed hats. Apply mineral sunscreen to any exposed skin and reapply after water play or sweating.

Sunburn affects your body's ability to cool down

Sunburned skin loses its ability to regulate temperature effectively. On hot match days, sunburn significantly increases your risk of heat exhaustion. Protect your skin to protect your overall health.

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