Don’t forget your sunscreen
Every year, approximately 16,000 Australians are diagnosed with melanoma*, and around 2,000 will die from it^. Skin cancer is one of the most common cancers in Australia and is almost entirely preventable. As pharmacists, it’s a statistic we are passionate about helping you avoid being counted among.
•What type of sunscreen? Choose broad spectrum, water-resistant SPF30+ (or higher) sunscreen
•What does the SPF number mean? SPF (aka ‘sun protection factor’) tells you how long the sun’s radiation will take to redden your skin using the product versus not using anything (ie. with SPF30, it would take 30 times longer to burn than if you weren’t wearing sunscreen)
•When to apply? Apply sunscreen at least 20mins before sun exposure*, and reapply at least every 2 hours (as it comes off easily with sweat, swimming, and towel drying).
•How much sunscreen? The rule of thumb is at least one teaspoon per limb, for the front and back of the body, and for the face and head. For an adult, you’re looking at around 35mL (7 teaspoons) of sunscreen each application.
•Don’t forget the tricky places! Ensure you have coverage on your ears, lips, hairline, nape of neck, armpits, tops of feet, fingers and toes, and around your swimwear line. Remember to cover up with hats and long-sleeved clothing to maximise protection.
•When should I wear sunscreen? Always. Cancer Council recommends using sunscreen every day on days when the UV Index is forecast 3 or above^. Make sunscreen part of your daily routine - not just when you’re outside or at the beach.
Your local TerryWhite Chemmart pharmacy is perfectly equipped to help keep you protected this summer. Before heading outside, head in-store and stock up on our range of sun and skin care products to help keep you protected, including sunscreen, zinc, sunglasses, protective lip balm. Speak to your local TerryWhite Chemmart pharmacist about what products may be right for you, stay protected, and have a safe summer.
Sources:
* Melanoma Institute of Australia, https://www.melanoma.org.au/understanding-melanoma/melanoma-facts-and-statistics/
^Cancer Council, 2021: https://www.cancer.org.au/cancer-information/causes-and-prevention/sun-safety
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