How to protect your skin while enjoying the outdoors this summer

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Use a combination of skin protection options for maximum protection.

While you may think red, peeling skin is as Aussie as budgie smugglers, sunburn is actually a stinging reminder of the damaging power of the sun's UV rays.

Experts suspect a rise in severe sunburn cases in Victoria is due to our over reliance on sunscreen. Burning can occur when people don’t use enough sunscreen, fail to reapply sunscreen and ignore other forms of sun protection such as hats, sunglasses, clothing and shade. 

Sunburn can occur in as little as 15 minutes in January, and 95 per cent of melanomas are due to overexposure to UV radiation. 

Sunscreen should be reapplied at least every two hours in sufficient quantity to be fully effective, or more frequently if you are perspiring, swimming or drying off with a towel. As a guide, apply: 1 teaspoon to cover your face/head/neck area, 2 teaspoons to your torso and 1 teaspoon to each arm and 2 teaspoons to each leg.

Remember to check your sunscreen’s use by date and to store it in a cool place. Carry your sunscreen in your bag rather than leave it in the car because it can become ineffective when exposed to prolonged heat above 30 degrees.

SunSmart has a free app that tells you in real time the current UV level for your location in Australia. The app also has a warning tool to tell you when UV levels have risen and it’s time to protect yourself.

SunSmart, jointly funded by Cancer Council Victoria and VicHealth, recommends using a combination of methods to protect your skin whenever the UV index is 3 or above:

For maximum protection outdoors this summer:

  • Slip on clothing: Choose long sleeve shirts with collars and trousers made from lightweight, tightly woven fibres.

  • Slop on sunscreen: At least 20 minutes before heading outdoors, apply SPF 50+ broad spectrum sunscreen. Choose a water-resistant sunscreen if swimming.

  • Slap on a hat: Choose a wide brim hat that covers the sides of your face and your neck.

  • Seek shade: Sit under a tree or shade sails, or in shadows cast by buildings.

  • Slide on sunglasses: Wear close-fitting wraparound style sunglasses with a 9 or 10 eye-protection rating.

Pay close attention to your skin and see a doctor if you notice new spots or have existing spots that concern you. Campaspe Family Practice has a skin clinic on Fridays.