Free the nipple: but don't forget the sunscreen

Quite frankly I have no qualms about women going topless at the beach.

Topless bathing: Good or bad thing? Picture: David Nielsen

Quite frankly I have no qualms about women going topless at the beach.

Topless bathing is legal in Australia, with the indecent exposure laws just covering the genital area, but personally, I wouldn't do it.

I am far from a prude, but the reasons I would not go topless is that I don't want my puppies featuring and being shared across YouTube or in a Snap Chat story.

Plus, I simply wouldn't feel confident and comfortable baring almost everything to the world. Also, I don't like being gawked at or judged. Sadly, going topless invites a lot of unwanted attention.

Men are visual creatures and the fact that our society usually keeps women's chests under wrap, makes sighting a boob (or two) exciting.

Men (and some women) can't help but look when they see breasts. While boobs are just a part of the body, they are sexualised and many men (and some women) find them a turn on.

Once the boobs are out and on show, women have little control as to the reaction they might cause from the creepy to the judgemental.

It is a double standard that male nipples can go on show at the beach, whilst females have to keep their nipples under fabric.

Women should be allowed to go topless, but they really can't complain about the staring and attention they will receive if they choose to go sans bikini top on the beach.

This is a given. And if the boobs are on show, don't forget the sunscreen!