Whether it’s a dip at the beach, a few laps at the local outdoor pool or, if you’re lucky enough, a few bombs with the kids in your own backyard oasis, as soon as the mercury climbs, Aussies all turn into water babies!

But in a country boasting the highest cancer rates in the world, we also know that swimming and sun awareness need to go hand in hand. And if you’re a little confused about how to stay sun aware while swimming, you’re not alone! How much sunscreen do you need? When should you reapply? Does it have to be dry before you hit the water?

Here’s what you need to know about swimming and sun awareness.

1. Choosing a sunscreen

It’s important to know that not all sunscreens are water resistant. You need to specifically look for a water resistant sunscreen to make sure it’ll be suitable while you and your family are swimming. Also look for a sunscreen with a minimum of SPF 30.

The new look SunSense Performance SPF 50+ is designed to help keep the sun’s UV rays at bay while you’re swimming. Its light, non-greasy formula is suitable for the family (face and body!) and it’s water resistant for up to four hours.

Just remember that sunscreen is water resistant, not waterproof

2. Wait before hitting the waves

As tempting as it is to just jump into the water straight after slopping on your sunscreen (and just try to keep the kids from running off!). It is really important to give the sunscreen 20 minutes to properly absorb before sun exposure or swimming.

The best tip for kids is to apply the sunscreen before the temptation of swimming is present! So apply the sunscreen at home if you’re less than 20 minutes from the beach or pool, or pull over on your way and apply it. Then they’re ready to hit the water as soon as they arrive!

3. Apply sunscreen liberally

You may be worried that applying a generous amount of sunscreen before swimming is going to leave you feeling greasy in the water – but sunscreens have come a long way! SunSense Performance SPF 50+ is non-greasy and light, so you can apply the correct amount, without worrying about it coming off or being slippery in the water.

For adults, you should be using seven teaspoons of sunscreen over your whole body – that’s one teaspoon on each limb, then one for the front of your torso, one for your back and one for your face and neck – don’t forget your ears!

4. Reapply sunscreen each hour or more!

The general rule for reapplying sunscreen is every two hours. However, if you’re swimming or sweating, you need to be reapplying more often. Also keep an eye on when towelling dry, sunscreen will need to be reapplied – the kids as well!

5. Don’t just rely on sunscreen!

As incredible as sunscreen is, we also need to make sure we’re protecting ourselves in other ways when swimming. Long-sleeved, UV protective rashies, waterproof hats and sunglasses or swimming goggles with UV protection will all help in protecting your skin from harmful rays directly from the sun, or bouncing off the water.

Basically try and cover as much skin as possible, and make sure you cover up when you get out of the water.

And here’s a bonus tip – make sure you try and stay out of the water at peak UV times. Go for a dip early in the morning or later in the day when the UV rays aren’t as intense. Or seek out shady swimming spots if possible, or hit your local indoor pool in the middle of the day.

SunSense just makes sense for Aussie families

Australian owned and made, SunSense strives to provide Australian families with expert sun protection care that’s backed by science and exclusive to pharmacies.

SunSense is a proud supporter of the Melanoma Institute of Australia  which has a goal of zero deaths from melanoma.

Always read the label and follow the directions for use. Avoid prolonged sun exposure and wear protective clothing, hats and eyewear to further reduce risk. Frequent re-application is required.

Mouths of Mums is proudly partnering with SunSense to bring you this article. The SunSense range is specifically formulated using quality ingredients to provide specialised choices for you and your family.