Everyone knows it; you know it, your family knows it, your colleagues know it. Skin cancer is one of the most common and devastating health issues in Australia, with two in three Aussies diagnosed by the time they’re 70 and more than 750,000 treated for life-threatening melanomas each year. But, a majority of skin cancers are preventable. As Australia and New Zealand’s largest retail network in pool and spa chemicals, your health – particularly when you’re in the pool – is important to us. This summer, please be sun smart. When the UV Rating is above 3, take the necessary actions to protect you and your family.
Wear protective clothing
Clothes that cover as much skin as possible – long sleeves, high necks, and collars – all will keep you protected from the sun and are preferable. Rash tops are also great at keeping the sun off when you’re in the water.
Use a minimum SPF 30+ sunscreen
It’s important to cover yourself in broad spectrum and water-resistant sunscreen and reapply liberally every two hours.
Wear a hat
Broadbrim, bucket or legionnaire hats are great because they protect the face, nose, neck and ears – all common sites for skin cancers. If you’re hanging by the pool, bathing in the shallow end, or doing a bit of maintenance, a hat is a must. Unfortunately, wearing a cap doesn’t provide enough protection. Choose your fabric wisely – if you can see through it, so can the UV!
Wear sunglasses
Exposing your eyes to harmful UV rays can cause cataracts and macular degeneration. Wear sunglasses that meet the Australian Standard of UV protection through the daylight hours. Wearing your sunglasses in the pool or spa doesn’t just look cool; it protects you from the sun and the reflective UV radiation from the water.
Shade is your friend
By staying in the shade as much as possible, you will significantly reduce your exposure to the sun. It’s also important to avoid reflective UV radiation from nearby surfaces. Remember that there’s no such thing as a healthy tan.
Be safe, be sun smart and enjoy your summer!
