Ultraviolet (UV) radiation is part of the electromagnetic spectrum emitted by the sun. UVC rays (wavelengths of 100-280 nm) are absorbed by the atmospheric ozone, most radiation in the UVA range (315-400 nm) and about 10 % of the UVB rays (280-315 nm) reach the Earth’s surface.

The World Health Organisation has a comprehensive range of information on UV and sun protection.

The current AS/NZS 2604 Sunscreen Standard was implemented in 2012 and requires both primary and secondary sunscreens sold in Australia to comply with updated test requirements for both UVA Broad Spectrum and SPF Sun Protection claims.

This document by Dermatest provides a comprehensive overview of the current SPF and UVA testing standard.

Learning about ultraviolet (UV) radiation is essential for our lives under the Australian sun. We have one of the highest levels of UV exposure and highest rates of skin cancer in the world.

The Australian Bureau of Meteorology provides comprehensive information about the UV index along with daily forecasts.

A World Health Organisation publication. The Global Solar UV Index (UVI) describes the level of solar UV radiation at the Earth’s surface. The higher the index value, the greater the potential for damage to the skin.

The WHO provides a comprehensive guide to understanding the UV Index and the impact on our health.

This scientific review report is a very comprehensive review of safety concerns surrounding zinc oxide and titanium dioxide nanoparticles present in sunscreens.

The two main issues considered in this review are the evidence for their ability to penetrate the skin to reach viable cells and the potential toxicity exerted by them.

Sun protection is essential to skin cancer prevention – about 90 percent of non-melanoma skin cancers and about 86 percent of melanomas are associated with exposure to UV radiation from the sun.

The Skin Cancer Foundation has further information about staying safe in the sun.