Sunscreen should not be your only protection from the sun. Other ways of being sun smart include:
- limiting your exposure to direct sun
- seeking out shade
- wearing protective clothing, a hat, and sunglasses.
Using sunscreens on infants below 6 months of age
The Australasian College of Dermatologists recommends that the use of sunscreens should be minimised for infants below 6 months of age due to the sensitive nature of newborn and infant skin. If sunscreen must be used on infants under 6 months of age, a healthcare professional should be consulted. Learn more about sun protection and sunscreens.
How to apply sunscreens
Always apply sunscreen according to instructions on the label
It's important to apply and reapply frequently especially when sweating or swimming. Most people do not use enough sunscreen.
Sunscreens are effective when applied generously and reapplied frequently. How much you need to apply and how often you need to reapply depends on the type of sunscreen and your activity.
Don't assume that all sunscreens are the same and have the same instructions for use. It may surprise you how much sunscreen is required for each limb and how often you may need to reapply. The instructions for proper use of a sunscreen are always written on the label and should be followed.
Lotions
Apply generously to all exposed skin and reapply the same amount at least every 2 hours, especially after swimming or towelling. More frequent application is required when undertaking activities in the water or that cause perspiration.
Aerosols
Aerosol sunscreens are mixed with propellant, so they are more dilute than an equivalent volume found in a sunscreen lotion. This means you have to use more of the product compared to a lotion or cream to achieve the same coverage.
The average can of aerosol sunscreen contains approximately 90 - 100 ml of sunscreen formulation, excluding the propellant. This means that approximately 1/3 of a can of aerosol is required for a single application to cover the whole body.
Aerosols should be applied out of the wind as even light wind can result in the majority of the application missing the skin.
You should hold the container 10 to 15 cm away from the body and apply generously and evenly until the product looks and feels wet on the skin. Aerosols should also not be sprayed directly on to the face to avoid adverse effects from accidental inhalation.
Common side effects of sunscreens
The most common side effects from sunscreens reported to us are local skin reactions, so it is a good idea to test sunscreens on a small patch of skin before first use, especially in young children or when changing to a new sunscreen.
This can be done by applying the sunscreen on a small area of the inner forearm and checking for any changes to the skin. If a skin reaction occurs ask your pharmacist or healthcare practitioner for advice on a suitable alternative product.
If you experience an adverse event from a sunscreen
If you use sunscreen according to the label instructions and experience an adverse event (like sunburn or a skin reaction), we encourage you to report any adverse event to us. This information helps us detect signals for products that may require investigation.