Sunshine Coast business Bakslap, the innovative lotion applicator originally created to promote sun safety, and the Australian Skin Cancer Foundation (ASCF) are teaming up to amplify awareness about the importance of skin checks and melanoma prevention.
Bakslap began as a simple sunscreen applicator in 2019 and has since evolved into a widely used solution for applying medicated lotions, aiding hospital patients, and supporting the aging population.
While Bakslap remains deeply committed to sun safety, its practical benefits have expanded well beyond its original purpose, making it a staple in homes across Australia and internationally.
This collaboration is represented through co-branded Bakslap packaging, which will be available as part of ASCF’s groundbreaking mobile skin check truck—a first-of-its-kind initiative since 2023 traveling to Australian communities to provide free skin checks.
People who visit the truck will not only receive essential skin health services but also have the opportunity to purchase a Bakslap, reinforcing the life-saving message of skin protection and early detection.
Bakslap was founded by Raphael McGowan after the heartbreaking loss of his sister, Tess, to melanoma in 2014.
The original idea behind the product was simple yet powerful: a sunscreen applicator to help people reach areas of their back – one of the
most common sites for melanoma.
Over the past seven years, Bakslap has evolved beyond sun safety, now widely used by people needing to apply all forms of lotion and
assist the aging population facing mobility challenges.
However, at its core, the SunSafe message remains a driving force behind the brand’s mission.
Raphael said, “Tess’s passing changed my life forever. It made me realise just how crucial sun safety and early detection are.”
“The partnership with the Australian Skin Cancer Foundation is another step towards a mutual goal – to encourage more people to get their skin checked.”
The partnership between Bakslap and ASCF is not just about a product – it’s about two like-minded mates with a shared mission.
Raphael and Jay Allen OAM, CEO of the Australian Skin Cancer Foundation, first met in the wake of Tess’s passing.
Since then, they’ve built both a professional and personal friendship, united by the common goal of preventing skin cancer and saving lives.
Jay, a two-time cancer survivor, has dedicated his life to raising awareness and driving change.
He understands firsthand the devastating impact of skin cancer.
“I’ve lost far too many friends to skin cancer,” Jay said.
“But I’ve also witnessed the power of early detection. I’ve seen lives saved because someone decided to get a skin check. This partnership with Bakslap allows us to extend our reach and encourage even more Australians to prioritise their skin health.”
How you can support this life-saving initiative
• Get a skin check – Visit the ASCF website to find the nearest mobile skin check truck location and make time for a check-up.
• Take home a Bakslap – By using it yourself or gifting it to a loved one, you’re spreading the message of sun safety and prevention.
• Get involved – If your business wants to support this initiative, reach out.
For more information, visit bakslap.com or www.australianskincancerfoundation.org/
