Most States in Australia are now “saving daylight”; in theory, at least, to give us some more usable leisure time.
Over the next few months, whether or not you live where the clocks have been adjusted, there will certainly be enough sunny weather to cause sun-related skin problems. It’s timely, therefore, that now at the beginning of summer, Cancer Council Australia launches National Skin Cancer Action Week.
You would think that by now, every one of us would have got the message about UV exposure, but still there are people who mistakenly believe there is such a thing as a safe tan. According to the Cancer Council, deliberate tanning results in body art of the most dangerous kind. In Australia nearly 400,000 people are treated each year for skin cancer; around 1500 die.
To the original three S’s in the slogan, another S has been added – to ensure even greater awareness of the need for protection from the sun. As well as the recommendation to slip on a shirt, slap on a hat and slop on some sunscreen, we should also slide on some sunglasses (make sure they meet the Australian Standard AS1067).
The “Slip, Slap, Slop” Campaign has worked well to increase our awareness of the dangers of sun exposure; but only up to a point. Apparently most of us know to protect ourselves at the beach or swimming pool, however, we forget to take the same precautions working or socialising outdoors at home.
Research undertaken by the Cancer Council and the Australian Department of Health and Aging shows that it’s not just the day, or even several days, at the beach that causes sun damage to our skin. The many days spent involved with everyday activities, without adequate protection from the sun, might be even more dangerous.
Results of the survey indicated that Australians were much more likely to get sunburnt at home than anywhere else. So even “accidental tanning” is a risky business.
Perhaps that’s not so surprising. The survey showed that while around 8% of Australians regularly went to the beach at the weekend, nearly 30% spent time gardening or working around the house.
If you’re 55 years old or more, you were probably in your 30s when the need for skin protection became well recognised; and most of the damage to your skin had already taken place.
Of course, it’s not too late to look after your skin now; but you also need to check your skin regularly for any new spots or a change in appearance of those existing spots.
You can get more advice and a Sense in the Sun Fact Card on how to stay sun smart this summer, from pharmacies providing the Pharmaceutical Society’s Self Care health information. Phone 1300 369 772 for the location of the nearest Self Care pharmacy.
If you must have a tan, a fake tan is the best option. There are a number of products your pharmacist can recommend which offer a much safer alternative to the sun-induced variety. But, remember, the colour from a fake tan does not provide protection against UV radiation. And fake tan products that contain a sunscreen only provide protection for a few hours after application – not for the duration of the tan.
