As the Noosa hinterland swelters through soaring end of summer temperatures and long hot days outdoors, new research has revealed a worrying disconnect between how teenagers view tanning and the serious health risks it carries.
A National Child Health Poll conducted by The Royal Children’s Hospital has found almost half of Australian teenagers say they prefer to look suntanned, with many mistakenly believing a tan offers protection against skin cancer. Dermatologists say the findings are alarming, particularly in a country with one of the highest skin cancer rates in the world.
The poll surveyed more than 1,400 parents and one of their children aged between 12 and 17, exploring attitudes toward tanning, sunburn and sun safety. It found nearly three quarters of teens had been sunburnt at least once in a six-month period, with close to half burnt multiple times. Despite the risks, most did not use adequate sun protection during peak UV hours.
“Teens may think skin damage isn’t something that will affect them until later in life, but we know that’s not true. Even one severe sunburn in childhood is enough to increase your lifetime risk of skin cancer.”
Dr Anthea Rhodes, paediatrician and director of the National Child Health Poll, said many teenagers may not fully understand the damage caused by sun exposure. “We know there’s a lot of trends on social media that highlight tan lines and even promote sunburn, and teenagers might not fully understand the risk tanning or sun exposure can pose,” she said. “That same slogan still rings true: ‘There’s nothing healthy about a suntan, it’s your skin’s response to harm from the sun.’”
In coastal and hinterland communities like Cooroy, where beach visits, outdoor sport and farm work are part of daily life, the risks can be heightened during prolonged heat. Skin damage can occur quickly, with experts warning it can take as little as 10 minutes for a child or teen to be harmed by the sun.
Dermatologist Dr Susan Robertson said the long-term consequences are often underestimated. “Teens may think skin damage isn’t something that will affect them until later in life, but we know that’s not true,” she said. “Even one severe sunburn in childhood is enough to increase your lifetime risk of skin cancer.”
Only a small number of teens surveyed understood when sun protection is required, with very few aware that protection is needed whenever the UV index reaches three or more, which includes autumn and winter. This lack of awareness is concerning as UV levels regularly exceed that threshold across South East Queensland, even on overcast days.
Emma Glassenbury, head of SunSmart at Cancer Council Victoria, said simple habits can make a big difference. “We recommend keeping a wide brim hat, sunnies, and sunscreen near the door ready when you leave the house,” she said.
Health experts stress that sunscreen alone is not enough. Covering clothing, shade and sunglasses all play a role in reducing exposure, particularly during the hottest part of the day.
Parents are also urged to act quickly if a child becomes sunburnt. Keeping hydrated, using cool compresses and providing appropriate pain relief can help ease discomfort. Urgent medical care should be sought if severe blistering occurs or if symptoms such as headache, nausea or vomiting develop.
As temperatures remain high and outdoor activity continues well into autumn, doctors are calling on families to challenge tanning myths and reinforce sun safe behaviour. In a region that values its outdoor lifestyle, protecting young skin now could prevent serious illness later in life.