Eastern-Sydney healthcare experts are emphasising the importance of adequate sun protection ahead of the fast-approaching Australian summer season, in efforts to prevent climbing cases of skin cancer.
According to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, melanoma rates have risen by 32% in the years between 2000 and 2024 with people aged over 50-years being the most frequently diagnosed.
Cronulla-based beauty therapist Anna Coleman said that prevention is far easier than curing, and stressed the importance of easy preventative measures ahead of the season.
“Use 50+ SPF sunscreen and reapply it every two hours,” Ms Coleman said.
“Wearing a hat and covering up are also essential.”
Ms Coleman has over 35-years of experience working with skin and said that her committment to education has allowed her to pass valuable information along to her clients.
“Vitamin B3 helps to repair damaged cells, reducing the risk of skin cancer by putting more energy into the cell,” she said.
“It helps reduce the immune suppression caused by UV radiation.”
National Skin Cancer Action Week, Cancer Council, 2023
According to the Cancer Council, skin damage caused by UltraViolet (UV) rays can have an irreversible impact on skin health and is a major risk factor for developing melanoma.
Registered Nurse Madeline Green emphasises that unprotected exposure to UV rays, like not applying sunscreen or using tanning beds, leaves you more susceptible.
She said that the human body does have ways to remove cells damaged by UV rays however these mechanisms can fail with prolonged exposure, with some people more at-risk than others.
Those with a history of sunburns, genetic predispositions and those with fair skin, moles and freckles are considered more likely to develop skin damage and melanoma.
“For high-risk individuals I’d recommend regular skin checks, either at home or with a dermatologist,” Ms Green said.
“Keep an eye out for any new moles or changes in existing ones, and don’t hesitate to get them checked out.”
Australians who might need a reminder of how to stay sun-safe can refer to Cancer Council’s 1981 Campaign: Slip, Slop, Slap!