Recent analysis by health insurer iSelect reveals that only about one-third of Australians apply sunscreen regularly, even though more than half spend over 15 minutes outdoors during peak UV exposure times.

Data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics indicates that just over 54% of Australians adopt three or more protective measures against sun damage.

The most popular methods include wearing sunglasses, donning protective clothing, using hats, or staying in the shade, yet only 38.3% consistently wear SPF 30+ sunscreen.

The Cancer Council advises daily sunscreen application on days when the UV Index is predicted to be 3 or higher, alongside using protective clothing, broad-brimmed hats, sunglasses, and seeking shade when feasible.

Andres Gutierrez, iSelect’s general manager, expressed concern over the low frequency of regular sunscreen usage among Australians.

“Consistent and effective sunscreen use is low, highlighting a key gap in everyday sun protection habits that could increase the risk of skin damage and skin cancer,” Gutierrez said.

“There is no doubt that the recent sunscreen recalls have impacted consumer trust and confidence in product safety, leading many Australians to question and be more cautious about which sunscreen they choose and how consistently they use them,” Gutierrez said.

“Without strong confidence in sunscreen efficacy and safety, we risk undermining the protective behaviours that are key in reducing sun damage and skin cancer risk.”

The data found more than half (61.2 per cent) of Aussies are outside for more than 15 minutes during peak UV hours, adding up to more than two days each week and 9.4 per cent of us still reported deliberately trying to get a sun tan.

“This is extremely concerning as intentional sun exposure significantly increases the risk of long-term skin damage,” Guiterrez said.

“The study also revealed that nearly seven per cent of Australians had also experienced a sunburn.”

iSelect analysed the ABS data to see which regions are the most sun-safe overall.

It found the Australian Capital Territory had the best sun-safe behaviour, despite having only moderate to high levels of UV and average sunshine hours.

The ACT was followed by the Greater Darwin region and the Greater Brisbane region, where residents were more likely to be aware of the extreme UV risk.

Sun safety was worst in Tasmania, where the UV risk is lower.