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30th October, 2024Your Guide to Staying Skin Safe This Summer
The return of summer means that many Australians are returning to the beach, the pool, or anywhere they can find a decent spot of sunshine. And while Australia is known for its beautiful summers and gorgeous beaches, it’s important to remember to stay sun-safe so that you can enjoy the warmer weather with minimal risk.
Sun exposure can lead to serious skin damage and sunburns, and increase the risk of skin cancer.
Use Sunscreen
Sunscreen isn’t just for beach or pool days – it should be applied every day, even the cloudy ones. We recommend any sunscreen that has an SPF rating of at least 30, as this will protect your skin against both types of UV rays – UVA and UVB.
When applying sunscreen, you should make sure all exposed areas of skin are covered, including ears, hands, feet, neck, and face. Sunscreen should also be reapplied every 2 hours.
Wear Protective Clothing
We all remember the phrase from school, “No Hat, No Play”, but this still applies no matter what age you are. A wide-brimmed hat is not only a fashion statement but will help protect your face and neck from sun exposure during the summer months. Wear one any time you head outdoors, to the pool, or to the beach. Many modern fabrics have an Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF), which states the level of sun protection they offer when wearing them. Try investing in clothes with a high UPF to stay protected as you go about your day-to-day routine.
Stay Hydrated
It’s easy to become dehydrated on a hot summer’s day as a result of sun exposure and high temperatures. But did you know that dehydration also affects your skin? Hydrated skin is better protected against sun damage, and staying hydrated in general is better for your overall health on hot days.
Protect Your Eyes
The skin surrounding your eyes is sensitive and is more susceptible to sunburn. By wearing glasses that protect you from UVA and UVB rays, you’ll be able to reduce the risks of eye damage, such as cataracts. Wrap-around sunglasses have the best design for protection against sun exposure.
Plan Your Outdoor Activities
Though we all spend more time outdoors in the warmer weather, it’s important to remain smart about it. The sun’s rays are typically strongest between 10am and 4pm, so it’s best to remain in the shade as much as possible and wear sunscreen and protective clothing and accessories during these times.
Check Your Skin Regularly
Keep an eye out for any changes in your skin, such as any new moles or growths. The key to treating skin cancers effectively is early detection. Having regular scheduled skin check appointments with your doctor as well as at-home examinations will help you stay familiar with your skin and keep you aware of any new developments or changes.
The skin cancer doctors practising at Carina Medical Centre are highly experienced and perform whole-body examinations. A skin check will not only help you during summer but your overall lifestyle and well-being. If you notice a mole that has changed its shape, colour, or size during the summer months, book an appointment for skin cancer detection.
Stay Safe This Summer by Following Our Tips
Staying sun-safe this summer is all about consistency. By ensuring you apply sunscreen daily, wear protective clothing, and keep hydrated, you will be helping your skin protect itself from any sun damage.
Regular skin checks will also allow you to stay vigilant against most skin cancers, and reduce the risk of serious complications through early detection.
Book a Skin Check at Carina Medical
For thorough skin cancer checks, visit the doctors practising at Carina Medical Centre. The doctors use the latest techniques and technology in skin cancer detection, examining all areas to give you peace of mind and to ensure early detection.
To make an appointment, get in touch with us online or call (07) 3398 8188.