Category - Sun Protection

Getting sunburnt could be another rebellious rite of passage for young people, says QUT public health researcher Dr Elke Hacker who is testing new UV detection wearables to try to make sun safety part of daily routine.

“Throwing off the ‘rashie’ Mum’s made you wear or not putting on a hat after years of ‘no hat, no play,’ are like other risky behaviours such as drinking alcohol or speeding that young people seem to indulge in,” said Dr Hacker from QUT’s Institute of Health and Biomedical Innovation. Read more >

We’ve teamed up with wearable UV indicator sticker company Suncayr and the Ugly Xmas Rashie to look at people’s sun protection habits.

People who buy an Ugly Xmas Rashie will receive a sample pack of Suncayr SPOTMYUV™ UV indicating spots that mimic skin to tell you when to reapply sunscreen. Participants are asked to complete an online survey when they purchase their rashie about their sun protection practices, and again 3 months later. Upon successful completion of the 3 month survey, participants go into the draw to win four Ugly Xmas Rashies from next year’s limited-edition design. Read more >

Organ transplant recipients are at an increased risk of skin cancers, including the most deadly form melanoma, and QUT researchers are looking for transplant recipients to test a new sun safety app to decrease your risk.

Friends, family and spectators at the event are also encouraged to participate, as sun safety is important for everyone in a high UV environment such as Queensland. Read more >

Dr Elke Hacker was featured in a segment on the children’s science show Scope on channel 11. On Scope scientists and researchers present stories about their research and latest discoveries.

Elke talked about the latest technology and innovation helping to keep people sun safe. Devices range from wearables, to apps and UVR detecting stickers. Elke is currently conducting several studies testing these new devices. Read more >