UV Index in Chicago Today

Wear sunscreen

Moderate UV exposure. Apply SPF 30+ sunscreen, wear sunglasses, and seek shade during midday hours.

10-Day UV Index

Sun Protection by Skin Type

Burn time estimates at current UV index (2.7) without sunscreen

Type I

Very fair skin, light eyes, freckles

Burn time: ~22 minSPF 50+

Type II

Fair skin, light eyes

Burn time: ~3378 minSPF 30-50

Type III

Medium skin, dark eyes

Burn time: ~4511 minSPF 15-30

Type IV

Olive/brown skin

Burn time: ~6767 minSPF 15-30

Type V

Dark brown skin

Burn time: ~133 minSPF 15

Type VI

Very dark skin

Burn time: ~200 minSPF 15

General tips: Apply sunscreen 15-30 minutes before going outside. Reapply every 2 hours and after swimming or sweating. UV rays are strongest between 10 AM and 4 PM. Clouds do not fully block UV — you can still burn on overcast days.