Sun damage is the damage that occurs to the skin when it is exposed to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun. UV radiation can cause premature aging, wrinkles, fine lines, and pigmentation. It can also lead to skin cancer.

Pigmentation is the color of the skin. It is determined by the amount of melanin in the skin. Melanin is a pigment that protects the skin from UV radiation. When the skin is exposed to UV radiation, it produces more melanin to protect itself. This can lead to hyperpigmentation, which is the appearance of dark spots on the skin.

Australia has one of the highest rates of skin cancer in the world. This is because Australia has a high UV index, which is a measure of the strength of the sun’s UV radiation.

The best way to prevent sun damage and pigmentation is to protect your skin from the sun. You can do this by:

• Wearing sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher every day, even on cloudy days.
• Reapplying sunscreen every four hours, or more often if you are swimming or sweating.
• Wearing protective clothing, such as a hat, sunglasses, and long sleeves and pants.
• Seeking shade during the middle of the day, when the sun’s UV radiation is strongest.