UV RADIATION & SKIN DAMAGE

UV is an invisible source of radiation from the sun that can penetrate into layers of skin and cause damage to unprotected skin and eyes.

It cannot be seen or felt, unlike visible light which we see and infrared radiation which we feel as heat. It means it can be harmful even on cool or cloudy days when people are less likely to use sun protection.

Overexposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation causes wrinkles and skin and eye damage, ultimately leading to skin cancer.(Cancer Council Australia )

Sun protection is generally required when the UV Index reaches 3 and above. However, because UV damage accumulates over time, it is recommended that outdoor workers, or those working near highly reflective surfaces, use sun protection year-round, even when the UV Index is below 3. (Cancer council Australia)

UV levels vary according to your location in Australia. You can access daily sun protection times and UV levels for your location: