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Being SunSmart

The Melanoma Foundation of New Zealand works with HSC (Health Sponsorship Council) and Cancer Society of New Zealand (CSNZ) to increase community understanding about melanoma and to promote "SunSmart" behaviour.

Can melanoma be prevented?

The risk of melanoma is reduced by avoiding sunburn and by protecting the skin against UV radiation using physical methods (shade, broad-brimmed hats, sunglasses, clothing), with the addition of sunscreens. Sunscreens should be used on skin that cannot be covered by clothing.

Protection is vitally important from September to March, especially between 10am and 4pm, which is when UV radiation is highest.

Safe fun in the summer

Remember the sun doesn't need to be shining brightly for you to need protection. It's the ultraviolet (UV) radiation that causes damage, even when it's cool and cloudy.

The essentials for September to March:

Wear a broad-brimmed hat
Wear clothes made of a densely woven fabric to cover your arms, legs and body
Wear sunglasses
Seek shade
Use sun screen on the parts of you left over! (eg your face). Apply broad spectrum SPF30+ sunscreen liberally and reapply every 2 hours. Sunscreen is not a substitute for the hats, protective clothing and sunglasses. It should be used to supplement these.
Don't ever allow yourself to get sunburnt
Never let a child get sunburnt! A child's sunburn now could lead to melanoma later in life.

Did you know?

Evidence suggests there may be a greater risk of melanoma from the use of sunbeds or solaria, especially if used by people under 35. Some countries have introduced age restrictions on the use of these. Read questions and answers about sunbeds here.

Be really careful with babies. A baby's skin is vulnerable. Babies should be kept out of the sun when the UV radiation levels are moderate or high. If this is not possible cover Baby with clothing, hats or wraps.

There is a greater risk of melanoma from occasional high doses of sun exposure than from continuous sun exposure.