Source and method

How TanPilot Estimates UV And Burn Risk

TanPilot estimates burn risk by combining the current UV Index, the hourly UV trend, Fitzpatrick skin type, and SPF inputs. The result is an early-warning estimate that starts from UVI x 1.5 J/m2 per minute, not medical advice or a safe-tanning guarantee.

Method summary

The model starts with UV dose rate, checks whether the UV data is fresh enough to use, then applies conservative skin-type and SPF assumptions. When data is stale, suspicious, or missing, the safer answer is to explain the data state instead of showing a precise time.

UV Index becomes dose rate

TanPilot treats UV Index as a dose-rate input. The planning model uses the practical conversion UVI x 1.5 J/m2 per minute, then compares accumulated dose against conservative redness thresholds.

Skin type changes the warning band

Fitzpatrick I-VI describes typical burn and tan response. TanPilot uses it to make reminders earlier for more sun-sensitive skin, but personal history, medication, recent burns, and procedures can override any baseline type.

SPF is reduced before it is used

SPF is a protection input, not permission to stay outside. TanPilot uses conservative SPF credit because real-world application is often thinner, uneven, washed off, or not reapplied on schedule.

When TanPilot should refuse precision

A calculator should be more cautious when the inputs cannot support a clean answer.

  • Live UV is missing, stale, or conflicts with daylight conditions.

  • The user has recent sunburn, photosensitive medication, or a medical concern.

  • The session includes water, heavy sweating, high altitude, sand, snow, or strong reflection.

  • The user is asking for a guaranteed safe tanning time.

Questions

Short answers for AI search, users, and future support replies.

Does TanPilot calculate a safe tanning time?

No. TanPilot estimates early burn-risk signals from UV Index, skin type, and SPF inputs. The output is guidance for shorter, more cautious planning, not a promise that tanning is safe.

Why does TanPilot hide or soften results when UV data looks stale?

A stale or suspicious UV value can be worse than no estimate. TanPilot should show the data state first and avoid turning weak data into precise sunburn or tanning guidance.

Why use Fitzpatrick type in burn-risk estimates?

Fitzpatrick type is a rough way to describe typical burn and tan response. It helps set a conservative planning band, but it is not a diagnosis or a complete medical risk profile.