There’s nothing like a warm, Aussie Summer spent outdoors enjoying what nature has to offer. Unfortunately though, Australians infamously boast the highest skin cancer statistics in the world with 2 in 3 Aussies estimated to be diagnosed with some form of skin cancer before the age of 70 (Cancer Council Australia, 2023)

Together with the five SunSmart steps, we identify a few simple strategies you can implement this Summer to ensure you and your family stay protected from the harsh Australian sun, while minimising your risk of developing melanoma.

The Five SunSmart Steps (as provided by the Cancer Council)

1. Slip on sun protective clothing

Choose clothing that covers as much skin as possible (think shirts with long sleeves). Some clothing may carry an ultraviolet protection factor (UPF), which is a guarantee of how much UV protection a fabric provides.

2. Slop on SPF 30 (or higher) broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen

Apply sunscreen to clean, dry skin at least 20 minutes before you go outside. You will need around seven teaspoons of sunscreen for your whole body. One teaspoon for your head and neck, one for each limb, one for the front of your body and one for the back of your body.

Always make sure to re-reapply sunscreen every two hours, especially after swimming, towel drying or if you work (or work out) outdoors and are likely to be sweating. And remember, sunscreen is your last line of defence, and should always be used in combination with the other measures.

3. Slap on a broad-brimmed hat

Choose, a broad-brimmed, legionnaire or bucket style hat which shades your face, nose, neck and ears, which are common sites for skin cancers. Caps and visors do not provide enough protection.

4. Seek shade

Use trees, built shade structures, or bring your own gazebo or umbrella with a high UPF designed to offer sun protection. Shade reduces UV radiation, but it can still reach you via reflection – especially around water - so make sure you use shade in combination with other sun protection measures.

5. Slide on some sunglasses

Sunglasses and a broad-brimmed hat worn together can reduce UV radiation exposure to the eyes by up to 98%. Choose close-fitting wraparound sunglasses, that meet Australian Standards.

Additional Strategies You Can Implement To Protect Yourself and Your Family

6. Limit sun exposure between 10am-4pm

UV radiation is generally most intense between 10am-4pm, therefore limiting your sun exposure during this time, may assist in reducing your risk to harmful UV rays. You can also check the UV rating for the day on popular weather apps or websites to find out when it’s at its strongest.

7. Be sun-smart in the car

Many of us forget that driving in the car for long periods of time can result in significant UV exposure. If possible, install UV-filtering film on car windows and apply sunscreen to exposed skin even if you’re inside the vehicle. If your job involves extended periods of driving, speak to your employer about ensuring you’re protected from the sun particularly during the day in the warmer months.

8. Get your skin checked

Perform monthly skin self-examinations to detect any changes or irregularities in your skin and consult a dermatologist annually if you notice any changes. If you have a family history of skin cancer, ensure you’re getting a professional skin check at least every 6-12 months.

9. Educate your children about sun safety

Teaching children about the importance of sun protection and the reasons why we protect our skin from the sun in a compassionate and conversational manner can help them develop good sun habits as they grow older. Make applying sunscreen part of their daily routine and role model the behaviour you want them to learn.

10. Recognise that UV exposure can occur even when overcast or cloudy

It’s a common misconception that UV exposure only occurs on a clear or cloudless day. Over 90% of UV rays can pass through light cloud cover and still cause sunburn, reminding us that being sun smart is not just something we do when the sun is visible.

Information sourced from The Wellness Workshop (https://www.thewellnessworkshop.com.au/).

Health and Wellness Articles

Filter by Category