Key Point
- The guidelines classify people into three groups and provide advice on sun exposure based on skin type.
- Experts emphasize the importance of applying sunscreen daily whenever the UV index is 3 or higher.
- New modeling also provides more clarity on the amount of time needed outdoors to maintain adequate vitamin D levels.
Excessive sun exposure is harmful, but vitamin D is essential. However, numerous studies have revealed that some people are confused about how to protect themselves from the sun while getting enough vitamin D.
“Historically, we've had pretty much a one-size-fits-all message about sunscreen, which isn't necessarily the right advice for all Australians,” she says. “So this advice is trying to address exactly that problem.”
Different skin types, different approaches to sun exposure
Two additional recommendations were added in 2007. Find shade and wear sunglasses to protect your eyes from the sun's strong rays.
Ever since Sid the Seagull first told Australians to wear long sleeves, apply sunscreen and wear a hat in 1981, sun safety advice has been here to stay. sauce: AAP / Cancer Council Victoria
Mr Neil said the new advice “recognizes that the sun can be bad or good and the balance of how to get it is not the same for everyone”.
This group is safe outdoors and does not need routine sunscreen unless they are in the sun for long periods of time.
According to the guidelines, people with darker skin are at higher risk of vitamin D deficiency and may not need routine sunscreen unless exposed for long periods of time. sauce: getty / robert nickelsburg
The second group includes people with very pale skin that burns easily. People with less fair skin may also have certain risk factors, such as a family history of melanoma, a personal history of skin cancer, immunosuppression, or having many large or abnormal moles. point.
The third group is people with dark white, olive, or light brown skin who are at moderate risk for skin cancer.
For this group, the advice recommends daily sunscreen use, but a little time outdoors most days of the week to maintain vitamin D and reap the other benefits of exposure to sunlight. We recommend that you spend some time there.
Why is vitamin D important? How can I make sure I get enough vitamin D?
The body produces vitamin D when the skin is exposed to ultraviolet (UV) B rays from the sun.
Anne Kast, Chair of the Cancer Council's National Skin Cancer Committee, says in most parts of Australia, just a few minutes of sun exposure is enough to get enough vitamin D. However, if you live in Tasmania during the winter months, you may need a longer exposure time depending on your skin type.
In most parts of Australia, the UV index is above 3 (the level at which it is recommended that most Australians wear sunscreen) for most of the year. sauce: getty / video alliance
Neil added that the sun may have some benefits when it comes to stand-alone vitamin D, and that just taking a supplement isn't necessarily the best approach for everyone.
“It could be for occupational reasons, it could be for cultural reasons. If so, people should talk to their doctors about their vitamin D needs. , because they can't make vitamin D,'' Neal said.
Keep sunscreen next to your toothbrush
“Apply sunscreen when you brush your teeth, and remember to reapply afterwards.”
“This means that if you have to go outside during the day for any reason, you can be confident that you have a basic level of protection on your own.”
