News

Shine light on sunblock

CHEMISTRY students at Granville TAFE have attempted to answer the question ‘How effective is the sunscreen we are using?’

Under the watchful eye of TAFE NSW Chemical Technology head teacher, Dr Freba Olime, the Diploma of Laboratory Technology (Chemistry) students used a UV-vis spectrometer to test the same sample size of sunscreen brands Beach Defence, Sport, Ombra and Everyday.
“The sun emits three types of ultra violet (UV) radiation and among them both UVA and UVB rays are able to penetrate the ozone layer and reach the earth’s surface, making them harmful to humans,” Dr Olime said.
“About 90 percent of all skin cancers are associated with exposure to the sun’s UV radiation and sunscreen is one of the key strategies that help reduce exposure to the harmful rays.”
In Australia alone, at least 400,000 people are treated for skin cancer each year.
The students’ results showed that while all the sunscreens tested absorbed UV at different rates, they were all able to effectively absorb both UVB and UVC rays reliably with a maximum absorption ranging between 0.38 and 1.15.
For enrolment or course information, call 131 601 or visit tafensw.edu.au.

Dr Olime’s top tips include:

  • Using sunscreen with a Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of 30+ and applying liberally at least every two hours.
  • Apply sunscreen 20 minutes before exposure to UV.
  • Remember that when UV levels are at their highest, the most effective protection is to seek shade.