As a model, magazine editor and media personality, Deborah Hutton has worn many hats throughout her career. Including her latest (literal!) one, as the designer of Canopy Bay – a range of UPF50+ maximum sun protection headwear. And, while “Deb” has won hearts across every endeavour she has undertaken, it is perhaps her most recent role that is closest to her own – given her own personal journey through the challenges of skin cancer. Having swapped the frenetic city life for a more peaceful existence by the ocean, Deborah shares her journey of sun safety, self-discovery and strength. And, offers living proof that it’s never too late to embrace your own path.
When she received her first diagnosis, Deborah recalls feeling “freaked out” by the reality of surgery. “I had a similar diagnosis nine years earlier, and it was significant. The doctor told me, ‘This has got to come out quickly,’” she explains, recounting how Mohs surgery – the procedure used to remove the cancer – was a lengthy, nerve-wracking process. “You’re awake the whole time while they remove layers, and they keep going until they’re sure it’s all gone. They cut, test, cut again, and you don’t know what you’re left with. It’s like, how much are they going to take?”
Her second diagnosis three years ago, in the same spot, shook her yet again. “I just shook my head and thought, ‘You silly woman. Of course there’s going to be more.’” This led to a serious change in her relationship with the sun. “It’s like black and white compared to what I did before. I used to roast myself out there, all for the glory of a tan, but now, I know it’s trauma for the skin. A tan is just damaged cells grouping together,” she says with emphasis. “I now actively avoid the sun. If there’s a table in the shade, that’s where I’m sitting. My total attitude has flipped 100%.”
The journey led Deborah to become a passionate advocate for sun protection. “People dismiss skin cancer, thinking, ‘Oh, just get it burned off or cut out.’ But when I did a documentary for Channel Seven, I spoke to a professor who showed me images of patients who’d had severe skin cancers on their face, impacting their ability to smell, see, or hear. He said, ‘Head, neck, and shoulders are the most exposed. And, if cancer enters the bloodstream, it can cause serious damage.’”
With Summer approaching, Deborah’s sun safety advice is direct: “First, wear sunscreen – 365 days a year. It doesn’t matter if it’s overcast or raining; put something on. Second, get a skin check regularly. Schedule it yearly, so you don’t forget. And finally, wear a proper hat. When Canopy Bay reached out after my surgery, I realised that the visors I was using weren’t protecting my ears or neck. Now, I make sure I’m covered.”
Beyond sun protection, today. Deborah’s life has taken on a slower, more intentional pace. After years of bustling through the fast lane of life, she has embraced her simple seaside sanctuary an hour south of Sydney. It is a space she describes as a soul-soothing retreat for reflection.
“I bought a beautiful piece of land right on the water,” she beams, excitedly discussing her dream home. Its renovation has become a passion project, reflecting her love of design and a desire for simplicity. “Living here by the coast, I’m reminded daily of how beautiful life is when you strip away the excess noise,” she says.
When asked about her beauty routine, Deborah’s approach is also one of simplicity. “I’ve always looked after my skin,” she shares. “I started modelling at 16, and my mother gave me one of those Clinique one, two, three sets. Since then, I’ve been pretty consistent.”
Her rituals also include drinking plenty of water, focusing on her sleep, and staying active, particularly through Pilates. “I’ve found a new place down here that I just adore.” she says. And while she admits she’s “far from an angel,” she believes that true beauty comes from within.
“I honestly believe that if your attitude to life is a bit closeted, you end up with a face that reflects that. But if you embrace life…you’re going to end up with a demeanour and a smile that reflects that, too.”
Similarly, Deborah views ageing with an equally positive perspective “I just think, well, there’s actually beauty in ageing, and there’s a lot of laugh lines, smiling lines in there, which I’ve enjoyed over many, many years. You end up with the face you deserve,” she says with a smile.
Reflecting on the past, Deborah holds no regrets. “I don’t believe in it,” she shares candidly. “I think whatever has happened in the past has happened for me to evolve as a person… Sometimes shit happens, and you think, ‘Why is this happening to me?’ But then it will evolve, and you’ll kind of go, ‘Okay, well, this wouldn’t have happened if that didn’t happen.’”
And, while the quiet life clearly suits her, Deborah hasn’t turned her back on her career entirely. Including her upcoming appearance at Ceres Homestead which will undoubtedly offer opportunities to consider her thoughts on regret, resilience and radiant skim – sans sun.
Through this platform, Deborah aims to continue to raise awareness about skin cancer. And, she is hopeful her story will inspire others to take their health seriously. “There’s a lot I’m grateful for in this chapter. I’m in a place where I can look back with pride but also look forward with a real sense of purpose.”. Even if that means swapping the spotlight for the serene glow of a setting sun. SPF-protected, of course!
Join Deborah for an intimate conversation about her journey On Sunday, 17 November 2024, from 1:00 pm to 4:30 pm at Ceres Homestead. Where she will share her personal story in a unique event that promises meaningful conversation and connection. As well as the opportunity to talk all things health and happiness, every guest will receive a Canopy Bay Hat of their choice. Tickets are limited and available at Ceres Homestead or The Getaway Traveller.
