UV Protection for Travelers: Preparing for Sun-Intensive Adventures in Australia (2024)

Sunbathing in Australia
Source: pixabay.com

The sun gives our skin beauty and health, but only if its exposure to ultraviolet rays is moderate. The Australian continent has one of the highest levels of solar radiation. As a result, there is a high risk of developing skin cancer, known as melanoma.

That’s why it’s essential to protect yourself from the harmful effects of the sun. This article aims to assist you in picking up the best product. Moreover, we will give you useful advice, so keep going!

How does the sun damage your skin?

A sunburn is not the worst thing that can happen to you due to the sun. The real harm is caused by UVA rays when they infiltrate into the deeper layers of the skin and destroy the cells responsible for the production of elastin and collagen.

UVB rays are harmful because they stimulate active cell division, resulting in thickening and roughening of the skin.

How does sunscreen deal with that?

How does Sunscreen Keep you safe
Source: dermskinhealth.com

The cream contains UV filters that create a protective film on the skin of the face.

Thanks to it, ultraviolet rays are scattered and do not penetrate into the deep layers of the epidermis, and you can stay outside for a long time without harm to the health and beauty of the skin.

How to choose a product?

The choice of product depends on the season, climate, and your phototype. The darker your skin and darker your hair, the better protection you have from ultraviolet radiation.

But since you are heading to Australia (just a reminder to rent a car ahead of time), the main part of which is in a tropical zone, regardless of your phototype you need to choose a high level of protection.

The greatest danger lies in equatorial, subequatorial, and tropical climates since solar activity in them is quite high. And, of course, in the summertime, the activity of the sun grows.

Sun Protection Factor

It should be at least 50. Keep in mind, that you will get a tan more slowly the higher the SPF. Additionally, there is not much sense in purchasing sunscreen 50+.

For example, SPF 70 only shields your skin from less than 1% more UVB rays than SPF 50 does.

Claimed Spectrum

When choosing sunscreens, pay attention to the mark about the spectrum from which cosmetics are stated to protect.

The best rating for you will be UVA+UVB or UVA/UVB or UV-Protect, which means that you will be shielded from both types of dangerous radiation.

The types of filters

Source: vox.com

If you have sensitive skin, it is better to use creams with physical mineral filters. Besides its main effect, they will soothe and moisturize the skin. Usually, a mix of physical and chemical filters is used.

So, don’t forget to test one or the other product before applying it to the whole skin.

Simply apply a small amount of the product to a small area of your face that’s easily covered, such as the underside of your jaw.

Where to buy?

If you doubt the quality of cosmetics that are made in your country, you can always buy them in Australia. It has the most stringent requirements for sunscreen products.

According to Australian law, sunscreens must:

  • Block at least 90% of UVA/UVB rays that hit the skin (the first line of skin defense) This condition must be met even after you have taken a swim once;
  • Contains a combination of at least two antioxidants (the second line of skin defense). This condition is advisory;
  • Protect in the UVA-I spectrum above 370 nm (this means that the product provides more effective protection against photoaging and sun allergies).

If a sunscreen meets these requirements, it can be labeled as an Australian Standard for protection. The best sunscreens to use in Australia are Australian ones!

Sun safety

Sun safety gear
Source: pixabay.com

To be surely safe while being outdoors, follow the next sun safety recommendations:

Shade

By finding shade under a tree, an umbrella, or some other structure, you can lower your risk of melanoma and damage caused by the sun. You can also move using a car, which creates a good shadow for you.

As for Australian car rentals, we recommend using rental24h.com. Quick service, and a variety of rental cars just one click away from you.

Protective Clothing

Wear something that covers your legs and arms to block out UV rays. Prefer a T-shirt or a one-piece swimsuit if it is not ok for you to wear this kind of clothing. Mind wearing a hat as well.

Choosing a summer outfit that complements your body type will not only make you look good, but will also make sure that you are well-protected from the sun’s harmful influence.

Sunglasses

Choose sunglasses with UV protection. The finest sunglasses are wrap-around models since they prevent UV radiation from entering from the side.