Did you know that sun protection is recommended whenever the UV is 3 and above?
In South Australia this is generally from the start of August until the end of April. Below, Cancer Council SA Community Education Coordinator Diem Tran explains why sun protection is important long after the summer heat ends.
With Autumn now upon us, many will be tempted to put the sunscreen and hats into storage for another year. However, sun protection is important whenever the UV is 3 and above, which here in South Australia is well into the autumn months, and even winter too.
As the weather begins to change, the UV can still reach skin damaging levels of 9 at this time of year so it’s vital that you continue to protect your skin.
Mad March sees the city coming alive with outdoor activities and festivals and means many of us will be spending plenty of time outside. Although event organisers will be focusing on strategies to keep us safe from COVID-19, it’s important to also keep in mind the ongoing threat of overexposure to UV radiation.
So, before you head out for your next Fringe show or pack your bags for WOMADelaide, remember these handy tips:
- Wear a sleeved top. Aim for at least elbow length to cover your shoulders and upper arms, however the more skin you cover the better the protection.
- Pack a broad brimmed hat (or bucket or legionnaires hat if that’s your style) and a pair of sunnies.
- Did you know you need to reapply sunscreen every two hours? Apply SPF 30 or higher before leaving home and pack some in your bag so you can reapply regularly throughout the day.
- Bring a water bottle with you to deter you from caving into buying expensive sugary drinks. Put some fruit, or a wedge of lime in your water to give it a fruity kick.
- Pack healthy snacks to keep you and the family going throughout the day. Try and pick snacks from a variety of the five food groups. Think cut up fruit, veggie sticks, grainy crackers, low fat cheese or nuts and seeds. Bring in icepack or cooler bag with you to keep your snacks fresh.
- Roll out a picnic rug, relax and enjoy! Just make sure you pick a nice densely shaded spot.
Just as you’ve developed a new normal to protect from COVID-19 each day, don’t forget to include UV protection into your regular routine. Both can’t be seen but can do a lot of harm and prevention is the key.
Want to find out more? Read more about UV and when you should protect your skin here.
Planning your own ‘Mad March’ event? Find out how to make sure you’re SunSmart here.