Most Australians know the feeling: the perfect day spent outdoors, whether at the beach or enjoying a barbecue, ends with sore, sunburnt skin that reminds you of the day for all the wrong reasons. While it might feel like a small price for outdoor fun, sunburn isn’t just a temporary discomfort—it’s a warning sign that your skin has been damaged. Thankfully, it’s preventable.
With one of the highest skin cancer rates in the world, Australians need to take sun safety seriously. Almost 2,000 lives are lost each year to this disease, yet many people underestimate the risks, with fewer than half of Australians regularly using SPF30+ sunscreen. Whether you're walking the dog, hanging out the washing or enjoying a day at the park, protecting your skin can significantly reduce your cancer risk.
What is UV radiation?
Ultraviolet (UV) radiation is a leading cause of skin cancer and is invisible to the naked eye. Unlike the warmth of the sun, you can’t feel UV rays—but they can still cause serious harm. Australia experiences some of the highest UV levels globally due to its proximity to the equator, high number of sunny days, and factors like pollution levels and the Earth’s orbit.
UV levels fluctuate throughout the day. Solar UV intensity is typically strongest between 10 am and 2 pm, making this a critical time to seek shade or take protective measures – especially when the UV Index is 3 or higher. You can check your local UV Index here: Ultraviolet Radiation Index`
What to do if you get sunburnt
If you do get sunburnt, treat your skin carefully to help it recover:
If your sunburn is severe, or you experience symptoms like headaches, fever or vomiting, consult your pharmacist or doctor immediately.
Sun safety is a year-round commitment
While summer gets the most attention, UV radiation is present every day of the year. Even on cloudy or cool days, the UV Index can reach dangerous levels. Incorporating sun protection into your routine is essential no matter the season.
Your community pharmacist can provide expert advice on the best sunscreens and other sun protection products for you and your family. Stay proactive, and let’s enjoy the Australian sun safely all year round.
References:
- https://www.cancer.org.au/cancer-information/causes-and-prevention/sun-safety
- https://www.cancer.org.au/about-us/policy-and-advocacy/prevention/uv-radiation/related-resources/statistics
- https://www.rch.org.au/kidsinfo/fact_sheets/Safety_Sun_protection/
- https://www.abs.gov.au/statistics/health/health-conditions-and-risks/sun-protection-behaviours/latest-release
- https://terrywhitechemmart.com.au/health-information/sun-care
- https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/conditionsandtreatments/sunburn#treatment-for-sunburn
- https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/sunburn
