Don’t let the cold weather fool you. Did you know that heat and UV are not closely related? This means your risk of sunburn has little to do with the temperature and much more to do with the UV Index.
Overexposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation leads to skin cancer and also causes wrinkles, skin blotches and eye damage.
Not sure when you’re most a risk? Download the free SunSmart app or go to www.MyUV.com.au and when the UV is 3 or more, slip, slop, slap, seek and slide…
1. Slip on protective clothing
Sunscreen is great on face and hands but long clothing is cheaper and more reliable for the rest of your body.
2. Slop on SPF30
For most of Australia, daily winter UV levels will reach 3 or higher, in the middle of the day. That’s why we now recommend that you use sunscreen every day UV index is forecast to be 3 or higher – regardless of whether you plan to be outside or not.
3. Slap on a broad-brimmed hat
Baseball hats are a no-no! The best way to protect your ears, face and neck from UV radiation is to wear a brimmed, bucket or legionnaire-style hat.
4. Seek shade where you can
Shade can significantly reduce UV exposure. However, UV rays reflect off surfaces such as sand, water and paving, so don’t just rely on shade to protect you from the sun.
5. Slide on sunglasses to protect your eyes
Wrap around styles are best for minimising UV exposure to your eyes. Sunnies don’t need to be expensive to be effective; just look for the Australian Standard (AS/NZS 1067:2016) on the swing tag when choosing a new pair.
