Wear sunscreen that’s in date and hasn’t been cooked

AMA (NSW) President, Dr Kean-Seng Lim, says now we’re at the peak of summer, people should definitely be wearing sunscreen whenever they’re outside.

“People should wear sunscreen and take protective measures against the sun whenever they’re out and about but it’s particularly important at peak UV times of year.

“It’s important to be wearing sunscreen that isn’t expired and that hasn’t been exposed to heat.

“Many people are unaware sunscreen has a use-by date and you should check your bottle or buy fresh sunscreen if you’re not sure.

“Additionally, if you’ve been storing your sunscreen in a warm location, you’re probably better off throwing it out and buying a new bottle.

“Sunscreen degrades if it’s exposed to heat and at this time of year, you want to have the best protection you can get.

“As always, in addition to sunscreen, wear a hat, protective clothing, sunglasses, and seek shelter from the sun at peak UV times of day.

“Exposure to UV radiation increases the risk of skin cancer – both melanoma and non-melanoma – and prevention is much better than requiring treatment or, in the worst case scenario, dying from skin cancer.

“Even if your family history puts you at a lower risk, whether you have light or dark skin, people in Australia are more likely to develop skin cancer than those almost anywhere else.

“So, practice sun safety in the summer and all year round,” Dr Lim said.

Media contact: Lachlan Jones 0419 402 955