Skin Health Australia has released an eye-opening report, showcasing the latest information on Australians and our relationship with our skin.
The Skin & Cancer Foundation Inc. have conducted their second Skin Health Australia Report card (SHARC), a survey aimed at tracking attitudinal and behavioural changes regarding the skin health of the Australia population over time, creating a sense of awareness action and urgency
The results have found that, interestingly, unhealthy skin is a key concern for Australians and rated third in a list of nine health conditions. However, it is evident that nearly two-thirds of Australians are still risking skin cancer and melanoma through unexpected sunburn.
The statistics are gripping. Some of the key findings include:
• 64% of respondents were unexpectedly sunburned in the past two years.
• 30% of respondents (equivalent to almost 4.6 million Australians) experience itchy skin, eczema or dermatitis.
• 35% still do not currently protect themselves from the sun by wearing a hat or using sunscreen.
In a country with the highest rates of melanoma in the world, Australian’s need to work extra hard when it comes to maintain healthy skin.
These results indicate that many people may be misjudging the importance of skin health. Unhealthy skin and common skin conditions may be a sign of larger health problems.
The key to better skin aligns with a better sense of awareness regarding skin health and the steps we can take to achieve the best results for our skin.
The new Suntivity range from Cetaphil makes it easy to protect your skin from the sun, as well as helping to protect from the signs of premature ageing and stressed-out skin.
Our top picks are the Cetaphil Suntivity SPF50+ Tinted Lotion for the face (RRP $16.60) and Suntivity SPF50+ Foaming Spray ($17.50) for the body – they nourish the skin, glide on easily and provide that all-important SPF.
Copies of SHARC 2015 can be downloaded from the Skin & Cancer Foundation Inc’s website at www.skincancer.asn.au
