Sun Safety for Children

... Your Little One Depends on You!

It's a summertime dilemma... sun safety for children. You want your child to enjoy the outdoors. And kids love the beach or pool! Playing in the fresh air with friends is fun and healthy. But there are worrisome warnings about the sun and skin damage.

So what's a parent to do?

Begin by understanding the risks and becoming familiar with the recommended guidelines.

* Fact: Up to 80% of lifetime sun exposure occurs by age 18.

The good news is that by following a few simple recommendations, you significantly reduce your child’s lifetime risk of skin cancer.

Risk Factors

The sun doesn't discriminate. Everyone is at risk for skin cancer. Yet certain physical traits increase susceptibility:

Does your child have ...

• Light colored hair (blond or red)?
• Fair skin?
• Blue eyes?
• Moles?
• A parent with moles?

If so, you need to be extra vigilant in protecting your child from the sun. Parents, grandparents, and caregivers should adopt the following guidelines.

Sun Safety for Children

The first line of defense is to shield your little one's skin from the sun:

• Avoid the sun between 10a.m. and 4p.m. as much as possible. The strongest rays occur during these hours.
• Cover up. A long sleeve shirt and pants provide a physical barrier. Make sure the weave of the cloth is tight. Your hand should not show when placed under the fabric.
• Seek shade for picnics and other outdoor activities.
• Use an umbrella or pop up tent during all day events.

The next step is ...

Sunscreen

Choose a sunscreen that offers...

• UVA & UVB protection (also know as "broad spectrum" protection).
• SPF 15 or higher (Sun Protection Factor)
• Waterproof protection for swimming. Consider sweat and rub resistant formulations.

Choose a brand with ...

• Titanium dioxide or zinc oxide. These natural minerals are easier on kid’s sensitive skin. There should be:No PABA. This chemical can is irritating.

Sunscreen tips

• Apply 30 minutes before your child goes outside.
• Use a generous amount.
• Rub all over the body. Pay particular attention to hands, ears, feet, toes, and behind the neck. Apply underneath bathing suit straps ... they never stay put!

The lips are often forgotten. A lip balm with an SPF 15 or higher will protect lips.

• Every 2-3 hours.
• After swimming. Waterproof sunscreen is good for up to 80 minutes.

Vacationing?

The sun is strongest during summer months, near the equator, and at high altitudes. Pack plenty of sunscreen when heading for that tropical cruise. And don't forget to take it (and use it) on that winter skiing trip.

Note: Don’t be fooled by "invisible" sun. Cloudy and overcast days give a false sense of security. Damaging rays have no trouble penetrating the cloudy atmosphere to skin below.

Babies

Infants need special treatment. Their skin is extremely susceptible to burning and damage. What to do?

Keep your precious baby out of the sun!

If the sun is absolutely unavoidable, read the recommendations at: Sun Screen and Babies.

Two final points concerning sun safety for children...

Medications

Ask your doctor or pharmacist about any medication your child is taking. Certain medications react negatively with the sun. Antibiotics are notorious for causing sunburns. Remember, a child is far more sensitive to the sun than an adult. Their skin will burn very quickly!

Sunglasses

Don’t forget to protect your child’s eyes from sun damaging rays. I find children love sunglasses. Of course, getting them to keep them on is sometimes a challenge. Consistently wear shades yourself and you will have an easier time. Let your child choose a fun style, but make sure the label reads 100% UV protection.

Healthy habits

Ultimately, you want your child to adopt lifelong, healthy sun habits. A consistent, matter of fact attitude and effective modeling will accomplish this goal. Protect your own skin from the sun... eventually your child will follow your example.

Practice the "sun safety for children guidelines." Your child is depending on you!