As Aussies, we love nothing more than having great weather and enjoying the outdoors with our kids, but there’s just one big caveat to having ‘fun in the sun’… ultraviolet (UV) radiation: the main culprit for more than 95% of all skin cancers. Contrary to what many think, the UV emitted from the sun can’t be seen or felt. In fact, it isn’t even connected to sunshine or heat! Let’s put it this way - when the UV Index is at Level 3, it’s strong enough to damage your skin, and in many parts of Australia, this is most days of the year.
As parents, we know all too well that children are at particular risk of sunburn and skin damage because their sensitive skin is especially vulnerable to UV radiation. Did you know, according to the research from the Cancer Council of Australia, exposure to UV radiation during the first 15 years of life greatly increases the risk of developing skin cancer later in life? So, what can parents do to protect and prevent their children from facing the sun’s harmful rays?
Simply follow the 5 ways to be SunSmart!
Slip: on clothing that is a physical barrier between their skin and UV. Consider the style, fabric, colour and UPF rating. The Cancer Council recommends loose-fitting clothing made from tightly-woven fabrics.
Slop: on some sunscreen that is at least SPF30+ or higher on any exposed areas of their skin. Make sure it’s broad-spectrum and water-resistant, and re-apply it every two hours.
Slap: on a sun smart hat that protects their face, head, neck and ears. Sun smart styles include broad brimmed, bucket style and legionnaire. Choose a close weave fabric that doesn’t allow light to get through, ideally with dark-coloured lining to reduce the amount of UV being reflected back onto the face and eyes.
Seek: a place for shade, which can be a natural or built barrier that protects people from direct and indirect UV radiation. Whether it’s a dense tree canopy or a man-made shade, take notice of its positioning and suitability for the time of day.
Slide: on a pair of close-fitting wraparound sunglasses (together with a sun smart hat) to provide the best protection for their eyes against UV radiation. The earlier young eyes are protected against UV radiation, the better. Make sure your children’s sunglasses meet the Australian Standard AS/NZS 1067.1:2016.
Remember, sun protection isn’t just for summer. Even on cool or cloudy days, the UV Index could remain at level 3 or above. Always check the SunSmart app or the daily newspaper for your local UV levels. And lastly, it goes without saying, being sun smart isn’t just for our kids! Be a great role model to them by practicing the 5 SunSmart principles in your own everyday routine. Because everyone deserves a bright future!