Edinburgh, Scotland UV Index in December
The average UV index in Edinburgh, Scotland in December is about 1.2 (Low), peaking near 2 at midday on clear days. Fair skin (Type II) can burn in roughly 75 minutes without sunscreen. Minimal protection needed for most people. Sunglasses are still a good idea on bright days.
What is the UV index in Edinburgh, Scotland in December?
Average UV
1.2
Low
Midday Peak
2
Clear-sky estimate
Fair Skin Burn Time
75 min
Type II, no sunscreen
How long can you stay in the sun in Edinburgh, Scotland in December?
| Skin type | Time to first burn | With SPF 30 |
|---|---|---|
| Type 1 | 50 min | up to 240 min |
| Type 2 | 75 min | up to 240 min |
| Type 3 | 120 min | up to 240 min |
| Type 4 | 120 min | up to 240 min |
| Type 5 | 120 min | up to 240 min |
| Type 6 | 120 min | up to 240 min |
Estimates based on Edinburgh, Scotland's latitude and typical December 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.
Edinburgh, Scotland UV Index by Month
When is the UV index highest and lowest in Edinburgh, Scotland?
Highest: June (about 3). Lowest: December (about 1.2).
| Month | Average UV | Midday peak | Level | Fair skin burn |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 1.3 | 2.2 | Low | 69 min |
| February | 1.8 | 3 | Low | 50 min |
| March | 2.2 | 3.7 | Low | 41 min |
| April | 2.7 | 4.5 | Low | 33 min |
| May | 2.9 | 4.8 | Low | 31 min |
| June | 3 | 5 | Moderate | 30 min |
| July | 3 | 5 | Moderate | 30 min |
| August | 2.8 | 4.7 | Low | 32 min |
| September | 2.4 | 4 | Low | 38 min |
| October | 2 | 3.3 | Low | 45 min |
| November | 1.5 | 2.5 | Low | 60 min |
| December | 1.2 | 2 | Low | 75 min |
Common questions about UV in Edinburgh, Scotland in December
Do you need sunscreen in Edinburgh, Scotland in December?
UV is low (1.2) in December, so most people only need sunscreen for long days outside, near snow or water, or at altitude.
Can you tan in Edinburgh, Scotland in December?
Tanning is slow at UV 1.2. You are unlikely to burn quickly, but UV still damages skin over long periods.
What time of day is UV strongest in Edinburgh, Scotland?
UV peaks around solar noon, roughly 11am to 2pm local time, when it can reach about 2 in December. Mornings and late afternoons are safest.
Is December a good month to visit Edinburgh, Scotland for the sun?
December averages UV 1.2, compared with a yearly high of 3 in June and a low of 1.2 in December. Darker skin (Type VI) can burn in about 120 minutes at this level.