UV Index & Sun Protection

Maldives sits near the equator — UV is extreme. How many minutes until your skin is damaged?

Unique: uses WHO Fitzpatrick skin-type thresholds, not "always use SPF 50" generic advice.

What this solves

UV at the equator peaks at index 11+ for most of the year — that's the WHO "extreme" category. A fair-skinned person can burn in 10–15 minutes around midday, even with cloud cover. The calculator uses Fitzpatrick skin type thresholds and water-reflectance factor to give you a real "minutes until damage" number.

How to read results

Safe minutes: time before estimated damage without reapplying protection.
UV index: WHO category (3 moderate, 6 high, 8+ very high, 11+ extreme).
Re-apply timer: sunscreen lasts ~2 h in water; earlier if towel-drying.

Limitations

SPF30 blocks ~97% of UVB; SPF50 ~98%. No sunscreen blocks 100%. Re-apply every 2 h, more often in water. Mineral (zinc) sunscreen is required at many Maldivian reefs.

FAQ

Do I need reef-safe sunscreen?

Yes for the reef. Oxybenzone and octinoxate are banned in many marine parks. Use mineral (non-nano zinc) — see the dedicated tool.

Does the water reflect UV?

Yes — up to 30% additional UV exposure. Snorkelers get hit twice.

About

Uses WHO UV index categories and Fitzpatrick skin phototype thresholds.

Privacy

Local only.

Disclaimer

Estimates only — individual skin sensitivity varies.