Slop!

Tips for choosing and using sunscreen well

Most people apply too little sunscreen.

When using sunscreen for sun protection, remember:

• no sunscreen provides full protection so never rely on sunscreen alone
• choose sunscreen that is broad spectrum and water resistant
• apply sunscreen generously and evenly to clean, dry skin 20 minutes before going out into the sun
• re-apply all sunscreens every two hours, or more often, when sweating
• check and follow the ‘use by' date stated on the packaging
• store sunscreen below 30°C
• on an average-sized adult, 35 ml should be applied; this is equivalent to 1 teaspoon of sunscreen to each arm, leg, front of body, back of body and face.

Download Sunscreen [pdf 64K] for more information about using sunscreen to protect your skin from ultraviolet (UV) radiation exposure and damage.

Nanoparticles and sunscreen

December 2009
Nanotechnology has been used in sunscreens for many years. To date, the Cancer Council's assessment, drawing on the best available evidence, is that nanoparticulates used in sunscreens do not pose a risk. However, we continue to monitor research and welcome any new research that sheds more light on this topic.

Sunscreen formulas and their components are regulated through the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA). In early 2009, the TGA conducted an updated review of the scientific literature in relation to the use of nanoparticulate zinc oxide and titanium dioxide in sunscreens.

The TGA review concluded that:

• The potential for titanium dioxide and zinc oxide nanoparticles in sunscreens to cause adverse effects depends primarily upon the ability of the nanoparticles to reach viable skin cells; and
• To date, the current weight of evidence suggests that titanium dioxide and zinc oxide nanoparticles do not reach viable skin cells; rather, they remain on the surface of the skin and in the outer layer of the skin that is composed of non-viable cells.

The TGA's report concerning the safety of sunscreens can be found at: www.tga.health.gov.au/alerts/sunscreens.htm

Cancer Council looks closely at TGA's advice, as well as our own evidence-based reviews.

Sunscreens also use 'microfine' or 'micronised' particles, which are larger than nanoparticles:

• Nanoparticles are smaller than 100 nanometres and invisible to the human eye - a nanometre is 0.000001 millimetre.
• Microfine particles are smaller than those used in conventional white zinc sunscreens, however are larger than nanoparticles - usually in the range of 100 to 2500 nanometres. 

Cancer Council sunscreens contain microfine particles, but do not contain nanoparticles.

Sunscreen has been proven to reduce the risk of skin cancer, in particular non-melanoma skin cancer. Skin cancer claims more than 1700 lives each year and we urge Australians to protect themselves using a combination of measures:

• Slip on some sun-protective clothing - that covers as much skin as possible
• Slop on broad spectrum, water resistant SPF30+ sunscreen. Put it on 20 minutes before you go outdoors and every two hours afterwards. Sunscreen should never be used to extend the time you spend in the sun.
• Slap on a hat - that protects your face, head, neck and ears
• Seek shade
• Slide on some sunglasses - make sure they meet Australian Standards

Sunscreen fundraiser

Summer is coming and UV radiation levels are already high. Time to stock up on sunscreen and raise funds for your early childhood service, school or sports club. See Smart fundraising sunscreen for details.

Finding sunscreen for an event

Are you looking for sunscreen for an outdoor event? SunSmart does not have sunscreen to give away. We do however have some ideas and suggestions to help.

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