BE SUN-SAFE
When the UV index* is 3 and above you need to protect your skin.
Prevention is better than cure!
Take our advice on the 5 ways to be sun-safe seriously:
1. SHADE
Seek shade - under a tree, umbrella, cabana or covered area. Or stay inside, especially in the hottest part of the day.
2. HAT
Wear a wide-brimmed hat. The wider the brim the better. Caps don't provide enough protection for your ears and neck. There are a lot of cool hats around, so find one that suits you!
3. PROTECTIVE CLOTHING
Cover up with clothing that protects your back, shoulders, arms and legs. Think long sleeves, a collar or bandana, long pants, maxi dresses and sarongs. As awareness of the need for sun protective clothing grows, so does the range of appealing options!
4. SUNGLASSES
Sunnies protect your eyes and the delicate skin around your eyes from the sun. And yes, melanoma can occur in your eyes. A bonus is they reduce glare and squinting, and therefore wrinkles! The more wrap-around the better!
Check the tag and buy sunglasses that meet the Australian standard (Category 2, 3 or 4).
5. SUNSCREEN
Use a broad spectrum SPF50+ sunscreen. Try different sunscreens - the best one is the one that feels good for you.
SUNSCREEN Q&A
What does broad spectrum mean?
Broad spectrum means it protects across a wide spectrum of UVA & UVB ultraviolet rays.
What is SPF?
SPF is the ‘Sun Protection Factor’ against UVB which causes most damage. (For eg, SPF 50 will provide 50 times the amount of time without sun damage, than if you weren’t using any sunscreen).
When should I apply?
Apply 20 minutes before you go outside and ensure all exposed skin is covered with sunscreen. When outside re-apply every 2 hours and after swimming or exercise.
Is sunscreen safe?
Be assured that Australia has very rigorous standards when it comes to sunscreen. All sunscreens are regulated through the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA).
*WHAT IS THE UV INDEX?
95% of melanomas are caused by over exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun.
UV is sneaky! You can't see or feel it. That’s why the UV index is so helpful! It’s a measure of the level of UV radiation at a time and location.
When the UV index is 3 and above sun protection is required to go outside, so that’s most days in Australia!
When it’s 8 and above you should avoid being outside during the hottest part of the day and definitely seek shade!
Due to reflection, UV levels can be higher on cloudy days than sunny ones.
Look for the UV index on weather forecasts, or download the SunSmart app.