Although ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun is the main cause of skin cancer, it is also the best natural source of vitamin D, essential for strong bones, muscles and overall health. SunSmart is encouraging parents and early childhood services to prepare for the onset of the cold autumn and winter months by encouraging children to get some sun exposure during their week.
Whenever UV Index levels reach three and above sun protection is required. At that level UV radiation is intense enough to damage the skin and contribute to the risk of skin cancer. In Victoria, average UV levels are below three between May and August, making it a great time to get outside for some sun to help with vitamin D levels.
Children with fair to olive skin should receive two to three hours of sun exposure to face, arms and hands or equivalent area of skin spread across a week and children with naturally very dark skin will need approximately three to six times this recommended exposure level.
You can check the daily UV levels on the SunSmart website or download the SunSmart UV Alert widget to add to your own website. For more information and downloads, go to the SunSmart website from the link below.
