We all love a bit of sunshine but are we adequately and consistently protecting ourselves?
According to the 2006/07 National Sun Protection Survey, only 37 per cent of Australian adults use sunscreen when outdoors during peak hours.
Here are some reasons why you should be protecting yourself.
- 95% of melanoma in Australia are caused by exposure to UV radiation in sunlight.
- Approximately two in three Australians will be diagnosed with skin cancer before the age of 70.
- Effects of UV radiation include premature skin ageing, cataracts, skin cancer, and sunburn- in as little as 15 minutes on a fine Summer day.
- 80% of a person’s lifetime sun damage comes from incidental exposure to the sun, i.e. walking to the shops. UV rays can penetrate both clouds and glass, so constant protection is essential.
Face Savers
- Invisible Zinc Environmental Skin Protector SPF 30+: Hydrating and comfortable to wear, it feels more like a moisturiser with no nasty smell. Offers high broad spectrum UVA and UVB protection. $35.00/50mL, 1300 738 850.
- Invisible Zinc Tinted Daywear SPF 30+:Tinted moisturiser with light coverage. No nasty parabens & SPF30. $32.
- ELES Mineral Sheer Tint, SPF20: This has got to be my favourite. Doesn’t feel like you’re wearing make-up, smooths into skin nicely with just enough semi-matte coverage. Great for sensitive skin and it’s water resistant.$62.95, www.elescosmetics.com.au
- ELES Retexturising Face Primer SPF20: A weightless serum that absorbs nicely into the skin to create a smooth base for foundation. $60.95.
Body
- Invisible Zinc 4 hour water resistant sunscreen SPF30+: Non-greasy and light unlike other sunscreens. $19.95.
- Palmer’s Cocoa Butter Formula Body Lotion SPF 15: I adore this lotion because it smells good, leaves skin silky and unlike the original, contains broad spectrum sunscreen. $9.40, 1300 191 918.
- Clarins Sun Care Spray Oil Free Lotion for Outdoor Sports SPF15: Quick and easy to apply-a winner with the guys in the office. $40/150ml, available at leading department stores and select pharmacies.
Hair
- Aveda Sun Care Protective Hair Veil: A water-resistant, UV-defence spray hair veil with conditioning organic shea butter and coconut oil to help minimise colour fading, damage and dryness. $49.95/100ml, 1300 300 054.
- Hypact Protect and Shine Glaze: A reconstructive serum that protects from thermal styling, UV light & environmental pollutants, whilst adding shine and banishing frizzies. Very economical as only need a tiny amount of product. $33.00/100ml, www.luxbc.com.au