Sun Protection Beyond Melanoma — Why UV Safety Still Matters for Everyday Health
Sun protection is about more than melanoma
Melanoma receives a lot of attention in Australia — rightly so — but sun exposure affects health in many other ways too. Ultraviolet (UV) radiation damages skin at a cellular level, and this damage builds up gradually across your lifetime. Protecting your skin is not only about preventing life-threatening cancer; it is also about preserving long-term skin health, comfort, function, and ageing.
Other skin cancers and precancerous changes
Beyond melanoma, prolonged sun exposure increases the risk of basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma. These cancers are often slower growing than melanoma but can still cause significant tissue damage, scarring, and require surgery or other treatment. Actinic keratoses (sun spots) are another example — rough, scaly patches that indicate sun damage and may sometimes progress to cancer if untreated.
Premature ageing and cosmetic changes
UV exposure accelerates skin ageing. Many people notice wrinkles, leathery skin, pigmentation marks, broken blood vessels, and reduced elasticity earlier when sun protection is inconsistent. While often described as “cosmetic changes,” they reflect real structural damage to the skin and can affect confidence, comfort, and long-term health.
Eye health also needs protection
Sun exposure does not only affect the skin. UV damage contributes to cataracts, pterygium (fleshy eye growth), irritation, and long-term eye strain. Good-quality sunglasses and hats are not fashion accessories — they are protective health tools.
Sun exposure and immune health
Chronic UV exposure can weaken local immune protection in the skin, making it harder for the body to repair sun damage and respond to infections or abnormal cells. Protecting the skin helps support the body’s natural defence systems.
Simple steps make meaningful difference
Sun safety is about practical, repeatable habits. Protective clothing, broad-brimmed hats, sunglasses, shade, sunscreen, and checking UV levels rather than temperature all help reduce risk. Sun protection is most important when UV levels are high — including cloudy or cooler days.
When to speak with your GP
See your GP if you notice persistent new spots, changing moles, sores that do not heal, rough patches, bleeding lesions, or any skin change that concerns you. Early review is safer, reassuring, and often simpler to manage.
Sun safety is not about fear — it is about protecting your skin, preserving your health, and supporting confidence across your lifetime.
This article provides general health information only and does not replace medical advice. Please speak with your GP for personalised care.