Sun Safety: Why It Matters All Year Round (and How to Get It Right)

Australia has one of the highest rates of skin cancer in the world. Around two in three Australians will be diagnosed with some form of skin cancer during their lifetime and the biggest cause is something we can all do something about: too much exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun.

The good news? Most skin cancers are preventable, and protecting your skin is simple once it becomes a habit. Here’s what every Australian should know.

UV is not the same as sunshine

You can’t see or feel UV radiation, it’s not the heat, and it’s not the light. That’s why people get sunburnt on cool, cloudy or windy days. The best guide is the UV Index: whenever it’s 3 or above, sun protection is recommended. In Queensland and much of Australia, that’s most days of the year, not just summer. You can check the daily UV Index on the free SunSmart app or the Bureau of Meteorology website.

The five S’s: your daily defence

Cancer Council Australia recommends five simple steps whenever the UV Index is 3 or above:

• Slip on clothing that covers as much skin as possible — longer sleeves, collars, and darker, close-weave fabrics offer better protection.
• Slop on sunscreen — choose SPF 50 or 50+, broad spectrum and water resistant. Apply 20 minutes before heading outside, and use plenty: an adult needs about a teaspoon for each arm and leg, and half a teaspoon each for the face, neck and ears — around 35ml (seven teaspoons) for a full body application.
• Slap on a broad-brimmed, bucket or legionnaire-style hat that shades your face, neck and ears — caps and visors leave too much exposed.
• Seek shade, especially in the middle of the day when UV levels are at their strongest.
• Slide on sunglasses that meet the Australian Standard (look for AS/NZS 1067 on the label) to protect your eyes.

Sunscreen: the most misunderstood step

Sunscreen is an essential part of sun protection, but it’s designed to be the last line of defence, not the only one. No sunscreen blocks 100% of UV radiation, which is why it works best combined with clothing, a hat, shade and sunglasses.

• Reapply every two hours and always after swimming, sweating or towel-drying, even if the label says water resistant.
• Check the expiry date and store sunscreen below 30°C, a tube left in a hot car loses effectiveness.
• Don’t rely on yesterday’s application sunscreen is a daily habit, not a one-off event.
• Used as directed, sunscreen may help reduce the risk of some skin cancers but only as part of a broader sun protection routine. Avoid prolonged sun exposure and remember frequent reapplication.

Don’t forget the often-missed spots

Ears, the back of the neck, the part in your hair, lips (use an SPF lip balm), tops of feet, and the backs of hands, these are among the most common places skin cancers appear, and the most forgotten when applying sunscreen.

Know your skin

Get familiar with your skin, all of it, including areas that never see the sun. If you notice a new spot, or a change in the size, shape or colour of an existing spot, don’t wait: see your GP or a qualified health professional. Adults of all ages and skin tones should make checking their skin a regular habit.

A word on vitamin D

Our bodies need some sun exposure to make vitamin D, and for most people, incidental exposure during everyday activities is enough. If you’re concerned about your vitamin D levels, speak with your GP or pharmacist rather than skipping sun protection, deliberately seeking a tan or extended unprotected sun exposure is never a safe way to top up.

Make it a habit, not a hassle

Keep sunscreen by the front door, a spare hat in the car, and sunglasses in your bag. Check the UV Index with your morning weather. Sun safety isn’t about avoiding the outdoors, it’s about enjoying the Australian lifestyle for decades to come.

Your local WholeLife pharmacist is always happy to help you choose the right sun protection for your family and answer any questions about caring for your skin.

This article is general information only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always read the label and follow the directions for use. If you have concerns about your skin, consult your GP or health professional.