A groundbreaking Australian study has challenged the long-held belief that spending time in the early morning or late afternoon sun is harmless, revealing that even low levels of ultraviolet (UV) exposure can damage skin cells and increase the risk of skin cancer.

Researchers from the QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute found that the total amount of UV exposure—not the time of day or the intensity of the sunlight—is the key factor in determining skin damage. Even short periods of repeated exposure can cause DNA changes linked to skin cancer.

The study involved 58 volunteers with light to olive skin, who were exposed to low and high doses of UV radiation. Although the exposure was not strong enough to cause sunburn, scientists still detected DNA damage and other early biological changes associated with skin cancer risk.

Researchers stressed that sunlight remains important for maintaining healthy vitamin D levels and overall wellbeing, but warned Australians not to assume cooler parts of the day are risk-free. Instead, they recommend making sunscreen and other sun-safe habits part of everyday life.

Health experts say the findings reinforce the importance of wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, a hat, sunglasses and seeking shade whenever spending extended periods outdoors, even when UV levels appear lower.