Skin and Cancer Foundation Australia professor says ‘there’s no such thing as a safe tan’
THE warmer weather is upon us so it’s time to get sun smart. Head of the Skin and Cancer Foundation Australia, Professor Pablo Fernandez Penas, reminds people there is no such thing as a safe tan.
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THE warmer weather is upon us so it’s time to get sun smart. We talk to the head of the Skin and Cancer Foundation for Australia, Professor Pablo Fernandez Penas, who tells us there is no such thing as a safe tan.
Skin cancer and premature ageing are the main concerns that come from too much exposure to the sun. What can we do to adequately protect our skin this summer?
An SPF 50+ broad spectrum sunscreen will ensure you have good protection from both UVA and UVB rays.
A good rule is to apply one teaspoon to seven body points (head/neck, shoulders/arms, back, torso and legs) 15 minutes before sun exposure. Re-apply every two hours and immediately after sweating or swimming.
What’s the difference between UVA and UVB rays?
UVA and UVB are the harmful rays that reach our skin.
UVB rays are largely absorbed by the outer skin layer and are responsible for sunburn. UVA rays penetrate deeper into the skin, are responsible for causing accelerated ageing and recent research shows UVA can also cause skin cancer.
Preparing our skin for exposure to the sun is important, but what can we do post exposure to ensure our skin is properly cared for?
After any outdoor exposure, a shower with a soap-free cleanser to clean and cool the skin and the use of a moisturiser to restore the lipid barrier is ideal. Technology to help repair the damage induced by the sun is in development.
There has been a lot of talk about vitamin D deficiencies lately. How can we ensure we are getting the right amount of vitamin D without risking too much exposure to the sun?
The majority of Australians receive adequate vitamin D levels from a few minutes of sun exposure in summer. In winter when UV levels are less intense, two to three hours is required in a week. However, it’s true there is no safe level of sun exposure. To avoid issues, vitamin D can always be consumed as a tablet.
It is often said people with olive skin are less at risk of skin damage from the sun, is this true?
People with more pigment in their skin are still at risk of skin damage, sunburn, skin cancer and ageing; however it will take longer for them to see these effects in comparison to those with fair skin.
What should you do to help your skin recover if you do get sunburnt?
If your skin does happen to get burnt, cool the skin down by taking a cool bath or shower and apply a moisturiser on a regular basis. If it is a more severe sunburn, you should seek medical help.
Is there a safe way to get a tanned look? Are tanning beds safe?
There is no such thing as a safe tan as there is no safe level of UV exposure.
A tan is proof the skin has had UV trauma. Tanning beds emit ultraviolet radiation (mainly UVA), which contribute to ageing and skin cancer.
Therefore cosmetic tanning is not recommended under any circumstances. The only safe way is to paint it on!
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