Skin Cancer Prevention for Families: Protecting Your Children’s Skin

Australia has one of the highest rates of skin cancer in the world — and the sun exposure your child experiences now can significantly increase their risk of developing skin cancer later in life. The good news is that with a few simple steps, you can help protect your child’s skin and teach them healthy habits that will last a lifetime. 

At Southport Skin Cancer Centre, we are passionate about raising awareness and empowering families to prevent skin cancer from an early age. Here’s what you need to know. 

Why Early Sun Protection Matters 

Children’s skin is delicate and more vulnerable to damage from the sun’s harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays. Research shows that just a few serious sunburns during childhood can double a person’s risk of developing melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer. 

Early prevention is key. By teaching and modelling good sun safety habits now, you can drastically reduce your child’s lifetime risk of skin cancer — and encourage habits that protect them well into adulthood. 

Practical Sun Protection Tips for Children 

1. Apply (and Reapply) Sunscreen Correctly

Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30. Apply it generously to all exposed skin 20 minutes before going outside, and reapply every two hours — more often if your child is swimming or sweating. 

Don’t forget easy-to-miss spots like: 

• Ears 
• Back of the neck 
• Tops of the feet 
• Hands 
• Lips (use a lip balm with SPF) 

2. Dress for Sun Protection

Clothing is one of the best defences against UV rays. Dress your child in long-sleeved shirts, wide-brimmed hats, and sunglasses with UV protection. Look for clothing with a UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) rating for added peace of mind. 

3. Seek Shade During Peak UV Times 

The sun’s UV rays are strongest between 10 am and 4 pm. Whenever possible, plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon, and encourage play in shaded areas like under trees, umbrellas, or sun shelters. 

4. Teach the ‘Slip, Slop, Slap, Seek, Slide’ Method 

A simple and memorable way for kids to remember sun safety is the Australian “Slip, Slop, Slap, Seek, Slide” message: 

• Slip on protective clothing 
• Slop on sunscreen 
• Slap on a hat 
• Seek shade 
• Slide on sunglasses 

This fun and easy phrase helps children remember the key steps to sun safety. 

Special Considerations for Babies and Toddlers 

Babies under 12 months have extremely sensitive skin and should be kept out of direct sunlight as much as possible. For babies: 

• Use a stroller with a sunshade 
• Dress them in light, long-sleeved clothing 
• Apply small amounts of sunscreen to exposed areas (hands, face) if shade and clothing aren’t enough 

Always choose sunscreens specially formulated for babies and toddlers, which are gentler on their delicate skin. 

Building Lifelong Sun-Safe Habits 

Sun safety isn’t just for trips to the beach. It’s important to encourage everyday protection — whether your children are at school, playing sport, or simply playing outside. 

Make sun protection part of the daily routine by: 

• Applying sunscreen before school 
• Including a hat in their school bag 
• Choosing shaded playgrounds 
• Leading by example: children are more likely to adopt sun-safe behaviours if they see their parents doing the same 

By making these steps a normal part of life, your children will grow up valuing their health and understanding the importance of protecting their skin. 

Regular Skin Checks Are Important Too

Even with the best sun protection, it’s still important to keep an eye on your child’s skin for any unusual spots or changes. 
Signs to watch for include: 

• New moles 
• Changes in existing moles (size, shape, colour) 
• Any mole that looks different from the others 

If you notice anything concerning, it’s always best to get it checked by a doctor who specialises in skin health. 

At Southport Skin Cancer Centre, we offer professional skin checks for the whole family. Early detection is crucial for effective treatment, so don’t delay if you have any concerns. 

Give Your Children the Gift of Healthy Skin