Suntan, safer

It’s a gorgeously warm day, and you’re looking forward to basking in the sun. You might follow that with a game of backyard cricket or beach volleyball, or chores outside.

Sounds like a dream, except the reality is that much time under the sun puts you at risk of overexposure.

Mindfulness of how long we spend in the sun – and reducing the risk of melanoma – is a hot topic. It’s a question thousands of Kiwis toss-up over summer, deliberating what they desire more: a deep, bronzed glow, or to be sun-safe.

Skin cancer is the most common cancer in New Zealand, and according to Worldwide Cancer Research, more than 80% of skin cancers derive from overexposure to ultraviolet rays. Yearly, the Cancer Society of New Zealand reports an estimated 90,000 non-melanoma skin cancers and 2800 invasive melanomas diagnosed. It costs the healthcare system millions – the total cost of skin cancer treatment is expected to hit $295 million this year – but losing loved ones costs us more.

Thousands are taking a new approach – a sun-free, self-applied tan. This includes Christchurch’s own Mary Outram, who released BONNIE in late 2024, a ‘bake-free’ range of dermatologist-tested and New Zealand-made tanning products for a natural-looking glow.

What’s not to love? Self-tanning formulas, provided you use a safe formula, give all that golden shine with zero risk of skin cancer. Plus, the sun isn’t there to click fast-forward on the ageing process. When outside, lather up in sunscreen and let your self-tan work its illusionary magic. Always have sun protection with you, including sunglasses, hats, and cover-up clothing.