Cancún, Mexico UV Index in January
The average UV index in Cancún, Mexico in January is about 7.5 (High), peaking near 10 at midday on clear days. Fair skin (Type II) can burn in roughly 12 minutes without sunscreen. SPF 30–50 sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses are essential. Seek shade between 11am and 3pm.
What is the UV index in Cancún, Mexico in January?
Average UV
7.5
High
Midday Peak
10
Clear-sky estimate
Fair Skin Burn Time
12 min
Type II, no sunscreen
How long can you stay in the sun in Cancún, Mexico in January?
| Skin type | Time to first burn | With SPF 30 |
|---|---|---|
| Type 1 | 8 min | up to 240 min |
| Type 2 | 12 min | up to 240 min |
| Type 3 | 20 min | up to 240 min |
| Type 4 | 32 min | up to 240 min |
| Type 5 | 48 min | up to 240 min |
| Type 6 | 72 min | up to 240 min |
Estimates based on Cancún, Mexico's latitude and typical January sun angle. Cloud cover, altitude and reflection from water or sand can raise or lower the real UV. Check the live forecast before long days outside.
When is the UV index highest and lowest in Cancún, Mexico?
Highest: May (about 9). Lowest: December (about 7.4).
| Month | Average UV | Midday peak | Level | Fair skin burn |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 7.5 | 10 | High | 12 min |
| February | 8 | 10.7 | Very High | 11 min |
| March | 8.5 | 11.3 | Very High | 11 min |
| April | 8.9 | 11.9 | Very High | 10 min |
| May | 9 | 12 | Very High | 10 min |
| June | 9 | 12 | Very High | 10 min |
| July | 9 | 12 | Very High | 10 min |
| August | 9 | 12 | Very High | 10 min |
| September | 8.7 | 11.6 | Very High | 10 min |
| October | 8.2 | 10.9 | Very High | 11 min |
| November | 7.7 | 10.3 | High | 12 min |
| December | 7.4 | 9.9 | High | 12 min |
Common questions about UV in Cancún, Mexico in January
Do you need sunscreen in Cancún, Mexico in January?
Yes. A UV index of 7.5 is High, so use SPF 30+ on exposed skin between 10am and 4pm and reapply every two hours.
Can you tan in Cancún, Mexico in January?
Yes, UV of 7.5 is strong enough to tan. Fair skin can burn in about 12 minutes, so build exposure slowly and use sunscreen.
What time of day is UV strongest in Cancún, Mexico?
UV peaks around solar noon, roughly 11am to 2pm local time, when it can reach about 10 in January. Mornings and late afternoons are safest.
Is January a good month to visit Cancún, Mexico for the sun?
January averages UV 7.5, compared with a yearly high of 9 in May and a low of 7.4 in December. Darker skin (Type VI) can burn in about 72 minutes at this level.