SunSmart

School children in sun protective uniforms

The sun's ultraviolet (UV) radiation is both the major cause of skin cancer and the best natural source of vitamin D. 

It's important to take a balanced approach to UV exposure – to help with vitamin D levels while minimising your risk of skin cancer by using a combination of sun protection methods.

Every year more than 1,830 Australians die from skin cancer – more than the national road toll. The good news is that skin cancer is one of the most preventable cancers.

Overexposure to the sun's UV rays can cause skin and eye damage and increase your risk of skin cancer no matter how old you are. It's never too late for prevention whether you are six, 16 or 60.

From September to April

In Victoria from September to April UV rays generally reach damaging levels (3 and above) on a daily basis. On some summer days they can reach extreme levels of 11 and 12. Check the SunSmart UV Alert each day at sunsmart.com.au, in the daily newspaper or on your smartphone (as a free SunSmart app) and use a combination of the five SunSmart steps when protection is needed:

  1. Slip on some sun-protective clothing.
  2. Slop on SPF30+ sunscreen 20 minutes before you go outdoors and every 2 hours afterwards. 
  3. Slap on a broad-brimmed hat that protects your face, head, neck and ears.
  4. Seek shade.
  5. Slide on some sunglasses: make sure they meet Australian Standards.

Remember that UV levels are most intense during the middle of the day.

During this time of year, most people with fair to olive skin need only a few minutes a day of UV exposure, before 10am or after 3pm to help with their vitamin D levels. People with naturally very dark skin need 3 to 6 times this amount.

From May to August

In Victoria from May to August, when the UV is generally low (below 3), sun protection isn't required unless you're outside for extended periods, near highly reflective surfaces such as snow, or when the UV reaches 3 and above. 

Most people with fair to olive skin need 2 to 3 hours of sunlight spread over a week, to the face, arms or equivalent area of skin to help with their vitamin D levels through these months. People with naturally very dark skin may need 3 to 6 times this amount of exposure.

To find out if you are getting enough sun for vitamin D, try the SunSmart vitamin D tracker tool.

If you're worried about your vitamin D levels, speak to your doctor. Levels can be tested with a simple blood test and options such as supplements can be discussed depending on your circumstances.

Skin checks

All Australians should check their skin regularly. Check all of your skin, not just sun-exposed areas. If you notice anything unusual or any changes, visit your doctor as soon as possible.

SunSmart program

The SunSmart program is world-renowned, leading the way in promoting a balance between the benefits and harms of UV. The program is jointly funded by Cancer Council Victoria and VicHealth.

Visit the SunSmart website for more information.

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