The A B C D E of skin checking

2 min read

Identifying skin cancer can be difficult because it can present itself in various shapes and sizes, making it challenging for an untrained eye to spot. However, catching skin cancer early can significantly increase the chances of avoiding surgery, disfigurement, or even death, according to experts like Associate Professor Rosemary Nixon from the Skin Health Institute. It is crucial to regularly check your skin for new spots or changes to existing moles or freckles.

To perform these checks, expert bodies such as The Skin Health Institute and Cancer Council Australia recommend doing so once a month in a well-lit room with a full-length mirror and a hand-held mirror for hard-to-see areas. The ABCDE method can help you remember what to look out for when checking your skin. If you are ever unsure about how one of your moles, spots, or freckles looks or changes, don't hesitate to speak to your GP or dermatologist right away.

Prevention via sun protection is best

Protecting your skin is the best way to prevent skin cancer, and it's important to remember that not all fabrics offer the same level of sun protection. Everyday clothing, such as a white cotton t-shirt or hat, may only provide a UPF 5 rating, allowing 20% of UV radiation to reach your skin, equivalent to wearing SPF 5 sunscreen. For better protection against the sun, we recommend wearing sun protective clothing, sun hats, and sunglasses.

At Solbari, we offer an award-winning range of UPF50+ sun protective clothing, broad-brimmed sun hats, UV arm sleeves, and sunblock umbrellas. With a UPF50+ rating, our products offer the highest available sun protection in the world, blocking at least 98% of UV rays. So, you can enjoy the outdoors with peace of mind knowing that your skin is protected.

You can find out more about Solbari’s certified UPF50+ sun protective range by clicking the links below:

Back to blog homepage

Content Disclaimer: All content on the Solbari website is for informational purposes only. It does not constitute and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you have read on this website. Reliance on any information provided on this website is solely at your own risk. Always seek the guidance of your doctor or other qualified health professional with any questions about your health or a medical condition.

Your Story Series: Amy

Skin Cancer & Melanoma

5 min read

After multiple melanoma diagnoses, Amy has built her sun protection routine around her adventurous lifestyle. She incorporates both SPF sunscreens and UPF 50+ clothing into her every day life so she can continue to embrace the outdoors without sacrifice.

Your Story Series: Leah

Skin Cancer & Melanoma

2 min read

8 years ago, Leah was diagnosed with Stage 3 melanoma shortly after her son's first birthday. In the years since she has learned the tools to allow her to continue enjoying the outdoors.

A woman and a man standing on a beach wearing Solbari sun hats and UPF 50+ clothing.

Sun Protection Beyond Sunscreen: Make UPF 50+ Clothing and Sun Hats Your First Line of Defence

4 min read

Learn why dermatologists recommend UPF 50+ clothing and broad-brim sun hats as the first line of defence, with sunscreen used to protect the areas clothing can’t cover.

A woman and a man wearing Solbari sun hats.

The Science of UPF 50+ Clothing and Sun Hats: Why Fabric Rating Matters

Sun Protection

5 min read

Not all fabrics block UV. Explore how UPF 50+ clothing and sun hats are engineered, tested and rated to keep your skin safer every day in the sun.

Courtney wears a Solbari sun hat and Luxe Sun Wrap

Your Story Series: Courtney

Skin Cancer & Melanoma

3 min read

After seeking help for a spot that was changing colour and getting bigger, Courtney was diagnosed with melanoma. She has since prioritised her health above everything else, and has incorporated sun protection as a non-negotiable in her daily routine.