When do I need sun protection?

Most Australians need sun protection when the UV Index is 3 or above. At this level, the ultraviolet (UV) radiation is strong enough to damage the skin and eyes.  

Skin cancer risk is related to the number of severe sunburns, particularly during childhood. A person's lifetime or ‘cumulative' exposure can also put you at high risk of skin cancer.

Our research shows that people are more likely to get sunburnt or add to their lifetime exposure tally when:

• working outdoors; where a lifetime spent working outside, year after year, can put you at high risk of skin cancer
• in the car; if in the car for a long time, you can get sunburnt. Consider using sunscreen and find out about window tinting
• playing or watching sport; many summer sports are played during times when there is a UV Alert
• around water; our research tells us that most Victorians burn when around water or doing water related activities
• attending a summertime outdoor event or festival; many summer events are held at times when UV levels are strong enough to damage the skin and the eyes
• at the snow or mountains; UV levels are stronger at higher altitudes and snow is a highly reflective surface catching visitors unprepared.

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