Younger Aussies are increasingly neglecting sun safety

Older generations are far more likely to protect their skin from the sun than people aged 13 to 28. (Mick Tsikas/AAP PHOTOS)

Younger Australians are increasingly choosing not to cover up when heading outdoors to enjoy the sun - a trend raising concern among health officials as summer approaches. 

Data released on Monday reveals just 26 per cent of people aged 13 to 28 consider sun protection extremely important, with the number growing to 33 per cent for those aged 29 to 44.