Summer is just around the corner, and it’s set to be one of the hottest yet. Melanoma is one of the deadliest and most common forms of cancer, and Australians are most at risk. So, you’re probably wondering how you can keep yourself from becoming a melanoma victim and how you can stay safe in the sun this summer.

The expert home doctors at House Call Doctor have put together their top tips for how you can stay sun-safe and protect yourself from those harsh UV rays this summer.

Apply sunscreen regularly

Applying sunscreen when you’re heading out for a day in the sun might seem obvious, but it’s something a lot of people forget to do. Whether you plan to spend five minutes or five hours in the sun, you should always apply sunscreen. It should be at least SPF30 or higher and be applied 20 minutes before you head outside. Make sure you reapply every two hours and reapply more regularly if you’re sweating or swimming.

Always wear a hat

Wearing a hat is one of the easiest things you can do to protect yourself from skin cancer this summer. While hats are also a fun fashion accessory, it’s important to choose the right kind of hat for optimal protection. Hats with a wide brim and thicker material will block the most sun, but it’s important to make sure it’s cool and comfortable so you can wear it all day long.

Seek shade when you can

Just because you’re worried about skin cancer, doesn’t mean you have to spend your day indoors. Seeking shade when you’re outside is one of the best ways to protect yourself from the sun’s harsh UV rays. This could mean choosing a picnic spot that’s under a tree or packing a large umbrella when you head to the beach.

If you’d like more tips on how to protect yourself from skin cancer or would like to discuss any abnormal spots on your skin, the after-hours bulk billing doctors at House Call Doctor recommend seeing your regular GP so you can stay cancer free this summer.