Sun Protection

Be SunSmart - adopt these 5 simple steps between mid-September and mid-April when the UV is 3 and above; OR if outside for extended periods of time in low UV, in alpine areas or near highly reflective surfaces.

Slip on sun protective clothing

One of the best barriers between your skin and the sun is clothing, so try to cover as much skin as possible.

Not all clothing fabric is equal. Look for a swing tag with a high ultraviolet protection factor (UPF) rating to be sure.

Remember:

• Long pants and shirts with a collar and long sleeves are best
• Light weight, closely woven material with a UPF of 50+ provides more protection
• Dark colours of the same material absorb more UV and are therefore more protective
• Loose fitting clothing will be cooler in the heat.

Download sun protective clothing for more information.

Slop on sunscreen

Many people apply too little sunscreen. Sunscreen should not be relied on as the only form of sun protection. No sunscreen provides 100% UV protection - remember to use in combination with protective clothing, hats and sunglasses.

Look for a sunscreen that:

•  Has a sun protection factor (SPF) of 30+
•  Is labelled 'broad spectrum' - this will filter both UVA and UVB radiation
•  Is water resistant -  less likely to be washed off by water activities or sweat
•  Meets Australians standards  - look for 'AUST L' or 'AS/NZS 2604:98' on the label
• Has a valid expiry date.

How to apply sunscreen:

•   Apply sunscreen 20 minutes before going outdoors to clean, dry skin
•  Layer sunscreen onto exposed skin rather than rubbing it in
•  Apply a thick layer of sunscreen - most people do not use enough
•  Reapply every two hours or more often if in water, sweating or towel drying
•  Remember your lips (a common skin cancer site). A zinc or lip balm will provide longer lasting protection than a cream.

Download our SunScreen Information Sheet for more information.

Slap on a hat

Slap on a hat that provides as much shade as possible to your face, head, neck, ears and eyes.  There are three main styles of hats that provide adequate sun protection:

•  Broad brimmed hats - with a brim of at least 7.5cm
•  Bucket hats - with a deep crown and brim of at least 6cm
•  Legionnaire hats - with a flap that covers the back of the neck
• Baseball caps and visors are not recommended as they leave the ears and the back of the neck exposed.

Download our SunSmart Hats Information Sheet for more information.

Seek shade

Staying in the shade is one of the most effective ways to reduce sun exposure, but remember that other sun protection measures (clothing, hats, sunglasses and sunscreen) should also be used to avoid reflected UV radiation.

Whatever you use for shade, be it trees, built shade structures or some form of portable shade, make sure it casts a dark shadow.

Download our Shade for Schools Information Sheet.

Slide on sunglasses

When choosing sunglasses look for:

•  Frames that fit close to the face
•  Wrap around styles that reduce UV entering from the sides
•  Sunglasses that meet Australian standard 1067
•  Sunglasses that have an eye protection factor (EPF) of 10.
  

If you wear prescription glasses consider adding a UV protective coating, attaching protective shades or wearing prescription sunglasses.

Download SunSmart Eyes for more information.