The one mistake all Australians are making with sunscreen

Everyone knows the drill: slip, slop, slap. However, it seems the devil is in the details, and it’s causing unnecessary damage to our skin.

WATCH: How to spot the early signs of skin cancer

Australians are generally quite well-informed when it comes to sun protection. We wear hats, stay in the shade, use sunscreen and often favour fake tan over baking in the harsh sun. However, it can be easy to forget the smaller nuances of sunscreen application.

The eye experts at OPSM report that the biggest mistake we are all making is not applying sunscreen to our eyelids, as the eyelid region accounts for five per cent to 10 per cent of all skin cancers.

Although it may be a difficult place to coat with sunscreen, leaving this delicate area exposed to harmful UV rays can cause serious issues such as melanoma.

"Whilst the eyelid is designed to protect the eye, its skin is exceedingly thin and contains many fragile tissues that may be injured by UV light,” OPSM's Peter Murphy told 10Daily.

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How to protect your eyes this summer

Wear sunscreen and apply to eyelids
Wear sunglasses with a minimum Sunglass Standard category of 2

The best places to buy sunglasses in Australia

To help safeguard you from sun damage to your eyelids, we've rounded up some of the best places you can buy sunglasses in Australia.

1. The Iconic

Shop now at The Iconic

Stylish and sun-safe options are aplenty at The Iconic with dozens of reliable brands from the Cancer Council to Ray-Ban to Karen Walker on offer.

2. Myer

Shop now at Myer

Myer's sleek range of sunnies is curated by Sunglass Hut and includes pairs by fashion powerhouses like Prada as well as homegrown brands like the Cancer Council (with many pairs being currently on sale).

3. Specsavers

Shop now at Specsavers

Needing prescription lenses doesn't mean you can't snag a stylish pair! Specsavers offers a wide range of protective yet chic sunglasses - and if you're with a private health fund, some of the cost may be covered.

4. OPSM

Shop now at OPSM

Offering a wide range of designer sunglasses, OPSM is another great place to shop for prescription sunnies (and like Specsavers, your health fund might cover some of your costs).

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Laura Barry

Laura Barry is a writer, bookworm and interior design enthusiast with a love for reporting on all things homes, travel and lifestyle. When not tapping away at her keyboard, Laura can be found making endless cups of tea or perusing the shelves of Sydney’s many bookstores.

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