A British study found that getting sunburnt just 5 times in your lifetime doubles the risk of melanoma – the most serious type of skin cancer. So here’s how to safeguard your skin before going out on the green.

• DON’T LOOK OIL-RICH
You don’t have to pile on sunblock, says consultant dermatologist, Dr Patricia Yuen. A 20-cent coin size for the face is enough. Apply more on exposed areas like forearms and calves. If you don’t want to feel greasy, try water-based sun protection products like Nivea’s Refreshing Fluid Protect SPF 30. It absorbs speedily and doesn’t leave an oily film.

• CHECK THE UV REPORT Log on to www.worldweatherserver.com to check the UV index – an international scale from 1 to 11+ that measures the intensity of ultraviolet radiation from the sun. Take note if it rises to at least level 6 and above.

• BEWARE THE SUN “SCREEN” An overcast sky doesn’t mean you’re shielded from UV rays. Dr Yuen says they can penetrate through the clouds so don’t skip the sunblock and shades.

• TOUCH-UPS A MUST Re-applying once every two hours is generally enough but it also depends on your skin type and how quickly it burns. If your skin gets tingly after 10 minutes, an SPF of 30 will let you stay in the sun for 300 minutes. If you’ve got a full day’s game ahead, go for sunscreens with higher SPF.

• NO HIDING FROM IT Don’t overlook your scalp, ears and lips. Try dabbing sunblock along your hair parting or tie your hair back so you don’t have one. And use a lip balm with SPF to prevent lips from shrivelling or getting fine lines.