Primary prevention of skin cancer is being ‘sun smart’. Everyone, particularly children, should be advised to adopt protective measures when UV levels are three or above. These measures include use of shade; broad-brimmed, bucket or legionnaire-style hats; protective clothing; sunglasses; and sunscreens with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 30 or higher.
Sunscreen must be applied properly to provide skin protection. About two teaspoons of sunscreen are needed for the head, neck and arms. Ideally, it should be applied about 15–20 minutes before going outdoors. It should be reapplied every two hours and after heavy sweating, bathing or long sun exposure, especially if outdoors when the UV Index is three or above.
For daily information about UV levels visit the SunSmart widget.
