1. Put enough on. The recommended application for adequate protection is 35 to 40ml per person per session (a handful). "So someone may think they are applying SPF15, say, but if they don't use the correct amount then it may only be equivalent to SPF8,"

2. Budget brands are just as effective as the more expensive brands.

3. Apply correctly. Sunscreen should be applied to clean, dry skin 30 minutes before exposure to the sun which allows it time to absorb properly.

4. Take time out in the shade between 11 am and 3 pm when them sun is strongest, but still apply sun screen because sand, concrete and water can reflect harmful rays.

5. Reapply. Perspiration, exercise, swimming and towel-drying removes sun creams from the skin so you should reapply after taking part in any of these activities, even if the product is waterproof.

6. Everyday use of sun lotions on your face and back of the hands will limit the chances of developing dry leathery skin, wrinkles, mottling and other signs of premature aging and skin cancer.

7. Cover up in the sun with loose cotton clothing, a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses with UV protection.

8. Use a "broad spectrum" sunscreen with a sun protection factor of at least 15 to protect against harmful UVA and UVB rays.

9. Overcast weather still requires sunscreen in summer because 80 per cent of ultra-violet radiation is still present on cloudy days.

10. Children and babies need greater protection so use specially formulated kids ranges with gentler ingredients and higher SPFs.