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Luckily, skin cancer is almost entirely preventable and high-profile awareness and information campaigns telling Australians how to save their skin have been in place for several decades. But there are still a lot of misconceptions about skin cancer and sun protection.

Cancer Council Australia's Skin Cancer Committee has developed a number of position statements and fact sheets addressing common myths and misunderstandings and providing clear information and advice aimed at helping Australians reduce their skin cancer risk. Many of the statements have been developed with input from other expert health organisations, particularly the Australasian College of Dermatologists.

Eye protection

Ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun doesn't just damage the skin. It can lead to eye complaints such as cataracts and cancers on the surface of the eye.


The fact sheet lists recommended measures to protect eyes from sun damage.

Eye protection position statement

Fake tans

Fake tans provide a safer alternative to sunbathing and solarium use. However, Cancer Council is concerned that some people who use them mistakenly believe their tan will protect them against UV radiation. As a result, they may not take appropriate sun protection measures, putting them at greater risk of skin cancer.

This position statement provides background information about various fake tanning products on the market and explains why Cancer Council does not encourage their use. It also outlines sun protection measures people should take while using fake tanning products.

Risks and benefits of sun exposure



In response to potential confusion over mixed messages about the risks and benefits of sun exposure, a collaboration of Cancer Council Australia, the Australian and New Zealand Bone and Mineral Society, Osteoporosis Australia and the Australasian College of Dermatologists brought experts from around Australia to a roundtable in Melbourne in December 2006, to review the latest evidence on vitamin D and develop this position statement.



Risk and benefits of sun exposure position statement

Screening and early detection of skin cancer

Survival from melanoma is strongly associated with depth of invasion; deeper and thicker melanomas are more likely to metastasise (spread) and be more difficult to treat. Thus, early detection is important. However, there is insufficient evidence that population-based screening reduces melanoma mortality.



Screening and early detection of skin cancer position statement

Private solariums

Private ownership and personal use of solariums remain legal (and unregulated) in all states and territories.

Cancer Council Australia does not recommend the use of artificial UV radiation tanning devices for cosmetic purposes in any circumstances. This position statement has information on private ownership and use of solariums in Australia.

Private Solariums position statement


Using sunscreen regularly has been shown to reduce the risk of skin cancer, including the deadliest form, melanoma. Sunscreen is one of five sun protection measures (slip, slop, slap, seek, slide). Cancer Council recommends using sunscreen that is broad-spectrum, has a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 30 and is water resistant.

This fact sheet provides information on choosing a sunscreen, correct application, sunscreen safety and sunscreen use and babies.

Sunscreen position statement

Sun protection and infants (0-12 months)



Sun protection and infants (0-12 months) position statement

Sun protection in the workplace



Sun protection in the workplace position statement

Tinted windows

Clear or tinted films applied to car windows can substantially reduce the amount of UV radiation that is transmitted into the vehicle.


Window tinting position statement


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