The sun's ultraviolet (UV) radiation is both the major cause of skin cancer and the best natural source of vitamin D. For best health, it's important to take a balanced approach to UV exposure that reflects the varying levels of UV throughout the year and across Victoria.
Every year more than 1,700 Australians die from skin cancer - more than the national road toll. The good news is that it's one of the most preventable cancers. Overexposure to UV can cause skin damage, eye damage and skin cancer. Childhood and adolescence are critical periods when sun exposure is more likely to contribute to skin cancer in later life.
Vitamin D is important for the development and maintenance of healthy bones, muscles, teeth and for general health.
Take extra care between 10am and 3pm when UV Index levels reach their peak.
People with naturally very dark skin (not tanned or olive) are relatively protected from skin cancer by the large amount of pigment (melanin) in their skin. They don't normally need to apply sunscreen, but it's recommended to wear a hat and sunglasses to protect their eyes.
From September to April, most people need only a few minutes a day of UV exposure, outside 10am - 3pm to maintain vitamin D levels. People with naturally very dark skin need 3 to 6 times this amount.
Everyone should check their skin regularly, at least every 3 months, to detect any skin changes. 
In Victoria from May to August, when the UV is below 3, sun protection isn't needed unless near high altitudes or highly reflective surfaces like snow. Most people need about 2 to 3 hours of sunlight to the face, arms or equivalent area of skin, spread over a week to get enough vitamin D. People with naturally very dark skin may need 3 to 6 times this amount.
To check the daily UV levels go to the SunSmart or the Bureau of Meteorology website.
The SunSmart program leads the world in promoting a balance between the benefits and harms of UV. It's jointly funded by Cancer Council Victoria and VicHealth.
Attitudes towards sun protection have changed dramatically since the 1980s Slip Slop Slap advertising campaign. Thirty years on and Victorians are now more than twice as likely to wear hats and sunscreen. The SunSmart message has also evolved to include Seek shade and Slide on sunglasses and the program focuses on both the harms and benefits of UV.
While melanoma incidence rates in Victoria continue to rise, the rate of increase has slowed. There's now a slower increase in those aged over 60, and falling incidence rates in those under 60. These falling rates in younger people reflect the positive effect of the SunSmart program on behaviour change. Earlier detection of skin cancer is also leading to improved long-term health outcomes.
Recent achievements of the SunSmart program include:
Visit the SunSmart website for more information about UV, skin cancer and vitamin D.
