Silvia Ilves at Kroonika Gala: "If I die of cancer in a year, then I die"

Cellist Silvia Ilves admitted at the Kroonika entertainment awards gala that she has never used sunscreen. Her comments sparked a broader discussion about Estonians' attitudes towards SPF protection.

At last week's Kroonika entertainment awards gala, cellist Silvia Ilves caused a stir with her candid remarks about sunscreen. When asked about the subject by TV3 news, Ilves spoke plainly: she has never used SPF creams and has no intention of doing so in the future.

Ilves's comment, "If I die of cancer in a year, then I die," sounded shocking, but in reality reflects an attitude that is quite common in Estonia. Many people view sun protection either as an unnecessary expense or an unwarranted concern.

Health experts have repeatedly stressed that regular SPF protection significantly reduces the risk of skin cancer and slows skin ageing. Estonia's summer is admittedly short, but UV radiation can be intense, particularly in June and July.

The Kroonika entertainment awards are among Estonia's most significant entertainment industry recognition events, bringing together well-known figures from television, music, and cultural life. This year, the gala attracted attention largely for being such a colourful affair.