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As summer temperatures rise and more of us are enjoying the great outdoors it seems many Australians have forgotten the Slip Slop Slap message. Australia has the highest rate of skin cancer in the world, and more than 5 million Australians are likely to get sunburnt this summer. It is much easier to prevent sunburn than it is to treat it, so remember to Slip, Slop, & Slap... Slip on a T-shirt * Clothes should cover your arms, chest and neck to prevent sunburn. * Longer sleeves and a stand up collar will protect more of your skin. * Fabrics made with a close weave will give better sun protection, than loosely woven fabrics. * Cotton, linen, or cotton/polyester fabrics are best as they are cool to wear, lightweight and offer the best UV protection. Slop on Sunscreen * Apply sunscreen 20 minutes before going outdoors. * Re-apply sunscreen every 2 hours or more often if you have been swimming or exercising. * Apply Lip balm with a SPF to your lips; and reapply regularly as it is easy to lick off. * Check the expiry date of your sunscreen, do not use if it is out of date as it will not be as effective. Slap on a Hat * A hat will reduce direct exposure of the sun to your face, neck and ears. * The brim of your hat should be 6cm wide for children and 8-10 cm wide for adults. * Make sure the hat is made from a tight, close knit weave that does not allow penetration of the suns rays. * Baseball hats and sun visors are not recommended, as they do not offer adequate protection. By protecting your skin from sun exposure you will reduce the risk of skin cancers and premature ageing, where your skin becomes less elastic and develops wrinkles. So remember to try and stay out of the sun between 11am and 4pm during summer; and always Slip, Slop, Slap. Slip, Slop, Slap is an Australian Skin Cancer Promotion
Article Source: http://www.therepozitory.com.au
This article is courtesy of Sandy Prosdocimo, Owner and Editor of Smart-Mums
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