Long exposure to ultraviolet light can damage your skin and eyes that may result in health problems, weaken your immune system, and cause skin cancer. It can be prevented with proper use of sunscreen and clothing coverage. The Microsoft Band 2 can help by letting you know the current UV index. It is the measurement of the intensity of the UV radiation from the sun on a scale of one to 11, with one being low risk and 11 being an extreme risk.
How do you check the UV index on the Microsoft Band 2? We'll show you.
1. Enable the UV tile. On your phone, open the Microsoft Health app, tap the hamburger button, and tap Manage tiles. The UV tile is off by default. Use the slider to turn it on, and then hit the save button.
2. On your Microsoft Band 2, press the power button, and tap the UV tile.
3. Press the Action button to check the UV level.
4. Face the clasp of the Band towards the sky for a few seconds and then the UV Index will be displayed.
What can you do with this information? Use this table from Microsoft as a guide.
| UV Index | What to do |
|---|---|
| 1, 2 (Low) | If you burn easily, cover up and use SPF 30+. |
| 3, 4, 5 (Moderate) | Wear a hat, sunglasses, and SPF 30+ (reapply every two hours).Seek shade at midday. |
| 6, 7 (High) | Reduce time in the sun at midday.Cover up and apply SPF 30+ every two hours. |
| 8, 9, 10 (Very High) | Minimize time in the sun at midday.Apply SPF 30+ every two hours, even when it's cloudy.Be sure to cover up. |
| 11 (Extreme) | Avoid the sun at midday and apply SPF 30+ every two hours, even when it's cloudy.Protective clothing recommended. |
For even more protection, you can set UV exposure reminders. Tap the UV tile, swipe left and change the UV reminder option to On.
If your Microsoft Band 2 detects exposure to UV light, it alerts you if you continue to be exposed. You can choose a reminder cadence from 30 minutes to 120 minutes. Pick a longer cadence if you're sufficiently protected with sunblock and clothing, and a shorter cadence if you want to be reminded to get out of the sun.
Is UV monitoring important to you? Will you be using it on the Microsoft Band 2? Let us know in the comments!
