With wall-to-wall sunshine, beautiful golden beaches for sunbathing and some of the best surf in the world it’s no wonder that Australian’s love to live the outdoor life. It’s also little wonder that back in the 1980s Australian’s were also suffering from some of the worst skin cancer rates in the world. The now legendary Slip, Slap, Slop advertising campaign, which encouraged Australians to Slip on a T-shirt, Slop on some sunscreen and Slap on a hat, helped bring the risk of sunburn and skin cancer to the top of the agenda and eventually helped reduce skin cancer rates. In fact, it was so successful, research undertaken by Cancer Research UK in 2003 identifies that UK deaths due to skin cancer are now twice as high as those in Australia - it’s even harder to believe with the August weather we’ve been experiencing! But that’s the point, you don’t have to be out sunbathing from sun-up to sun-down to increase your chances of damaging your skin. Even overcast days days can contribute to the tanning and eventual premature aging process of your skin - no matter whether you’ve got dark or extremely fair skin. Whilst nobody would recommend you cover yourself up completely and lock yourself indoors there are many, very simple precautions you can take to help protect your skin from the affects of the sun. Hit the high numbers - purchase a sunscreen with a Sun Protection Factor (SPF) rating of at least 15, if not higher. Remember, the higher the SPF, the better the protection. Apply sun lotion properly - ensure you put plenty on your face and neck, arms, back and shoulders and your legs. Don’t forget your sensitive bits - take particular attention to the tops your feet, ears, neck and hands as these generally tend to be the areas that get the sun worst! Prepare early - give your sun lotion plenty of time to work on the skin so apply your first application at least 20 to 30 minutes before going outdoors. Don't forget to protect your lips - there are many excellent lip balms available that also offer protection from the sun. Avoid the hottest part of the day - the sun is at its hottest between 11am and 3pm so make sure you get some shade or make an excuse to have a particularly long lunch! Don’t be afraid to cover up - get under a parasol, wear a loose fitting, long-sleeved t-shirt and wear a wide-brimmed hat. Any protection is good protection!
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