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Did you know, damage from Ultraviolet (UV) radiation adds up over time during our daily activities, often without us noticing? This overexposure to UV radiation can damage your skin’s DNA, which can lead to skin cancer.

UV radiation is a type of energy naturally produced by the sun. It’s the kind of energy that cannot be seen or felt yet can penetrate deep under skin and damage the skin’s DNA, which can lead to skin cancer.

Any visible change in your skin—from a tan to sunburn—is a sign of skin damage, but did you know most skin damage is invisible? It’s important to remember that without sun protection, skin damage is still occurring even though we may not see any visible changes to our skin.  This damage can be irreversible and adds up over time. Understanding UV radiation and how it can damage your DNA is an important step to safeguard yourself and your family against skin cancer.

UV versus heat

UV and temperature aren’t related, which means you can be at risk of sun damage on windy, cloudy and even cool days. Because of this, it’s important to always check the UV before you head outside. If the UV is 3 and above, make sure you protect your skin in five ways:

  • Slip on some sun protective clothing;
  • Slop on SPF 30, or higher, broad spectrum sunscreen, remembering sunscreen needs to be applied 20 minutes before going outside;
  • Slap on a shady hat that protects the head, face, ears and neck;
  • Seek shade whenever possible; and
  • Slide on some wraparound sunglasses that will reduce UVR entering the side of the face.

Every time that you and your family are outdoors—whether you are enjoying water sports, walking your dog, or simply spending time outside, it’s always important to check the UV, because being SunSmart is everyone’s business.

Interested in finding out more? Check out our latest video.

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And remember to download Cancer Council’s free SunSmart app to get the daily  sun protection times .

Download SunSmart app

Don’t let the sun see your DNA this summer and visit sunsmart.org.au.