Your Story Series: Meet Jacob

2 min read

What is your name?

G'day, my name is Jacob.

Describe yourself in 3 to 5 words.

I am pretty down to earth and enjoy the outdoors with friends and family.

How did you discover your skin cancer/melanoma/skin condition and how long ago?

I learned about my skin melanoma 3 years ago. It was just a small mark on my leg. I ignored it completely and paid no attention to it. I would jog every day during my lunch break a couple of kms to a nearby gym. I couldn't be bothered to wear any sun protection or sun screen for such a short jog.

I think I was extremely lucky and that some higher power was looking after me, because my GP stopped me one day when I met her at the gym. She had a look at my leg and recommended I have her friend look at it, just in case. I didn't think much about it, but decided to follow up. The skin doctor had closer look at my leg and was not clear if we should do anything about that mark right away, but we've decided to remove it "just in case".

Two weeks later I was called back to the doctor's office again. Doctor had a pretty serious expression on her face and said "We have cut out early malignant melanoma. You need to go into surgery to have wide incision done pretty soon."

I was in such a shock it took me a few hours to get the message. I went into surgery a few days later and the procedure went well. That was three years ago and now my approach to sun protection is very different.

What is your attitude to sun protection today?

I pay extremely close attention to sun protection. I bought a number of sun protective shirts and hats, use sun scream every day and pretty much always wear a hat when outdoors.

What would you tell your 16 year old self about sun protection?

I would say to my younger self "mate, this is really serious. Do not play around, just make sure you are always protecting yourself from the sun."

Pictured: full sun protection even on cloudy days.

Thank you Jacob for helping raise awareness for skin cancer, melanoma and skin conditions, and sharing your story with us and our Solbari Community.

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.

A woman and a man wear Solbari UPF 50+ clothing

UPF 50+ Sun Protection for Psoriasis

Skin Health Education

2 min read

For people living with psoriasis, choosing clothing that feels comfortable against sensitive skin can be an important part of everyday life. Solbari is proud to be the first apparel brand to receive the National Psoriasis Foundation’s Seal of Recognition, highlighted that our products are non-irritating, non-sensitizing, and non-toxic.

UPF vs SPF: Understanding the Difference for Skin Health

Skin Health Education

6 min read

UPF and SPF work together—but they’re not the same. Discover why UPF 50+ clothing offers set-and-forget protection, and where sunscreen is still essential.

Celebrating Over 1 Million People Protected Worldwide

Sun Protection

2 min read

Today, we're proud to celebrate an incredible milestone. Over 1 million customers worldwide have now chosen Solbari's trusted UPF 50+ sun protection.

Your Story Series: Rachel

Skin Cancer & Melanoma

2 min read

Rachel was recently diagnosed with Basal Cell Carcinoma, and is now including UPF 50+ sun protection as part of her self-care routine so she can continue to enjoy her time outdoors.

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.