With summer’s arrival, it’s normal for everyone to desire to spend more time outdoors enjoying the sun, beautiful weather, and warm days. However, too much sun can be just as dangerous for kids as adults. And while everyone should wear sunscreen when they plan to spend time in the sun, many experts agree that most people don’t use enough or reapply it as often as required for maximum protection.
According to the UCSF Benioff Children’s Hospitals, Melanoma is among the most common forms of cancer for young adults, 15-29. Rates of skin cancer — including melanoma, the most serious form of skin cancer — continue to rise, even in young people. Parents need to be extra vigilant about sun protection all the time. In this article, we look at what parents can do to keep their children safe while they’re having fun in the sun.
Use Sunscreen
One of the best things you can do to protect your kids and yourself while enjoying the summer sun is to use sunscreen, and experts recommend a product with an SPF of 30 or higher. Furthermore, it’s recommended that you use a sunscreen product that protects against both UVA and UVB rays and is water-resistant. However, note that while many sunscreen products advertise water-resistant, it doesn’t mean waterproof. Be sure to apply a fresh coat of sunscreen after your kids come out of the water to be safe.
Also, don’t be shy about applying generously. As mentioned, experts agree that people don’t use enough sunscreen, and dermatologists say to use approximately 1 ounce (the equivalent of a full shot glass) to cover the skin. Another trick you can use is the teaspoon rule, which says to use one teaspoon for every body part, such as your face, hands, neck, legs, etc.
Be Mindful About the Time of Day
The sun is its strongest during the hours of 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., which means that exposed skin is more likely to suffer from sunburn than later in the day. If possible, limit your children’s outdoor fun to after 4 p.m. when there’s still plenty of daylight available, but the sun won’t be bearing down quite as hard. And, remember that even on a cloudy day, the sun’s UV rays are just as intense as during a clear sky.
Keep Covered
The best way to protect your kids against sunburn is to keep them covered as much as possible — this is especially true for babies because their skin burns more easily. Use lightweight clothing that keeps kids cool that offers enough protection from the UV rays. An excellent way to test the clothes is to see if you can see your hand through them. If yes, they won’t provide the protection your kids need. Furthermore, look for clothing with built-in UV protection as another option.
Protect Their Eyes
One area many people overlook when it comes to sun protection is sunglasses, but the sun’s rays can negatively affect the eyes as much as the skin. Repeated exposure to the sun without sufficient protection can lead to cataracts and macular degeneration later in life, so make sure your kids wear sunglasses that provide 100% UV protection.
Check Medication
Another area that often slips under the radar regarding sun protection is medication. Some medicines can make the skin more sensitive to UV light, making kids more susceptible to rashes or burns. Check with your doctor about any medication your little one is taking and ask whether there’s a concern.
Get Help For Sunburn
Even when we take safety precautions, accidents happen. Whether we forget to use sunscreen, don’t use enough, or spend too long in the sun, it’s easy to get a sunburn. Experts recommend that you pay attention to your kid’s skin for the most common signs of sunburn, including:
- Redness
- Swelling
- Pain
- Blisters
- Dry, itchy, or peeling skin
- Fever
- Nausea
- Chills
- Weakness, confusion, or feeling faint
Some of these symptoms mimic other skin conditions, so you must schedule an appointment with your healthcare provider to assess whether your child suffered a burn or not if they exhibit extreme symptoms like fever, weakness, or nausea. If your child gets sunburn, give them a cool bath or use cold compresses on the affected area and apply moisturizer, aloe, or hydrocortisone cream, and monitor the skin for increasing redness or blisters.
Summer is a time meant to be enjoyed by all, especially children. With some forethought and diligence, you can keep their delicate skin safe from sunburns.
About Kids R’ Kids
At Kids R’ Kids at Avalon Park, we love children, and helping them get the best start possible on their educational journey in life is our primary goal. All our facilities are family-owned and operated by people in our community. Our learning academies are nationally renowned, and we provide a safe, secure, state-of-the-art learning environment with each owner.
If you’d like more information about how we can help your child get on the right educational path, contact us today to schedule a visit at 407-306-9035. We’re conveniently located at 12881 Tanja King Blvd., Orlando, Florida.