Slip, slop, slap, wrap

• SLIP on protective clothing

Choose clothing that:

1. Covers as much skin as possible, such as a long sleeved shirt with a collar
2. Is made from close weaved materials such as cotton, polyester or linen
3. Is dark in colour to absorb UV rays. Lighter colours will reflect the UV rays onto your skin
4. If used for swimming, wear material such as lycra which stays sun protective when wet.

• SLOP on SPF30+ or higher sunscreen

Make sure your sunscreen is broad spectrum and water resistant. Apply sunscreen to clean, dry skin at least 20 minutes before going outside and reapply every two hours.

• SLAP on a hat

A broad brimmed or bucket stlye hat provides the ultimate protection for the face, nose, neck and ears which are common skin cancer sites. Caps and visors do not provide adequate protection.

• WRAP on some sunglasses

Sunglasses, in combination with a broad brimmed hat can reduce UV radiation exposure to the eyes by up to 98 per cent. Choose close fitting sunglasses that meet the Australia Standard AS 1067. It is estimated 20 per cent of cataracts occur due to UV exposure to the eye. Remember, sunglasses are just as important for children, as they are for adults.