Why the UV Index Matters More Than the Temperature
Most of us decide how much sun protection we need by how hot it feels. It is the wrong instrument. UV radiation is not heat, and a mild, overcast spring morning on the Gold Coast can carry the same UV load as a scorching afternoon.
As Queensland moves into summer, that gap between how the day feels and what it is actually doing to your skin gets wider.
What the number means
The UV Index runs from 0 to 11 and above. Cancer Council Australia recommends sun protection any time it reaches 3 or above, which in Queensland is most of the year rather than just the warm months.
You can check it for your suburb on the ARPANSA UV index page or through the free SunSmart app. Both show daily sun protection times, which is more useful than the forecast temperature.
The five, briefly
When the UV is 3 or above, Cancer Council recommends all five measures together: slip on covering clothing, slop on broad-spectrum SPF50 or 50+ sunscreen that is water resistant, slap on a broad-brimmed hat, seek shade and slide on sunglasses. More detail is available on the Cancer Council UV Index page.
Sunscreen alone is the most common shortcut, and the least effective one.
Where a skin check fits
Sun protection manages future exposure. It does nothing about the exposure already behind you, which for most Queenslanders is considerable.
If you have not had your skin looked at, or you have noticed a spot that is new, changing, itching or bleeding, that is worth raising with a doctor. Our skin cancer services include skin checks and mole assessment, with 30 minute appointments at our Hope Island and Surfers Paradise clinics.
If what you have noticed is sun damage rather than a specific spot, our skin health and rejuvenation page covers the options worth discussing at a consultation.
Book a skin check or call us to talk it through first.
Book an Appointment for a Full Skin Check
Get a full skin check with the Auzskin team today and get peace of mind from qualified skin cancer doctors.
