The not-so-secret women golfers know that would help men play better, longer.
Attention: with rising temperatures and longer days, this public service announcement is especially crucial for you. A recent study conducted by the American Academy of Dermatology found a significant discrepancy in sun-protection education between men and women surveyed, a pattern that could help to explain the rising cases of melanoma, the most serious form of skin cancer, in men. Athletes and outdoors-lovers are especially at risk due to harmful UV exposure, particularly from 10am to 4pm, when the sun’s angle is at its most intense.
For example, only half the men surveyed knew that a “base tan” does not protect you from re-exposure, and that there is no such thing as a safe tan – any kind of discolouration is skin damage and increases your risk of developing skin cancers. (For comparison, three out of four women surveyed knew both these life-altering facts.) Similarly, only one out of every two male participants knew that skin cancer can even develop in areas not as routinely exposed to sun.
Which goes to show you that preventative measures, including properly applied sunscreen, sun shirts, hats and sunglasses, are all part of a healthy, sustainable, holistic approach to staying safe in the sun in addition to drinking plenty of fluids and limiting peak-time exposure (hello, early-evening tee times!).
To help you protect yourself and the ones you love, we’ve rounded up some easy, practical solutions to sun safety to add to your routine, now.
Sport Dry Touch Sunscreen SPF50+ 50ml
Small enough to clip straight onto your golf bag, Cancer Council’s Sport Dry Touch Sunscreen SPF50+ makes it a little harder to forget the most important pre-round accessory. The sweat-resistant, fast-drying formula is designed for sport, with SPF50+ broad-spectrum protection and a non-greasy finish that won’t interfere with your grip.
RRP: $11.95
SParms Original Arm Sleeves
A simple way to add another layer of protection on the course, SParms’ Original Arm Sleeves use ARPANSA-accredited UPF50+ fabric to block 98 percent of UVA and UVB rays. Lightweight, breathable and moisture-wicking, they’re designed to stay cool and comfortably in place throughout the round.
RRP: $44.99
Maui Jim Pu’ali sunglasses
Maui Jim sunglasses, including the latest Pu’ali model [above] combine glare reduction, UV and HEV protection, enhanced colour and contrast, and durable lens treatments for clear vision on the course. Lightweight, comfortable frames make them ideal for all-day wear, while options like Maui HT help enhance visibility in lower-light conditions.
RRP: $269
Sodii Everyday Hydration Salts
A handy addition to the golf bag on hot days, Sodii’s Everyday Hydration Salts deliver sodium, potassium and magnesium in a convenient single-serve sachet. Simply tear, mix with water and sip during your round, with the sugar-free formula containing less than 0.8g of carbs per serve.
RRP: $68.90 for 30 sachets
Main photograph by getty images/Stuart Franklin
