Summer Sun Protection Tips

It’s that time of year when kids enjoy being outdoors, taking advantage of the warm weather and longer daylight hours. Being out in the sun all day is fun but can be dangerous for tender skin. In this post, we look at why sun protection is so important and the best ways to protect your kids while they enjoy the sun this summer.

Why Sun Protection is Important for Kids

Sun protection is essential for everyone, but more so for kids because their skin is more sensitive and prone to damage from the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays. According to the National Institutes of Health, 55% and 72% of children get sunburned yearly.

Overexposing children’s skin to UV rays can cause premature aging and skin cancer, including melanoma. There are two main types of UV rays to worry about regarding skin: UVA and UVB. UVA rays cause the skin to tan, but they can also cause it to become leathery and dry. UVB rays cause sunburns, leading to skin cancer and increased moles in some people.

Tips for Sun Protection

Sunscreen

One of the most effective ways to protect your children’s skin from the sun is to use sunscreen. However, how do you know which one to choose?

Experts recommend applying a product that offers broad-spectrum protection against UVA and UVB rays, with at least an SPF of 30 to block out 9% of the UVB rays. If your child has sensitive skin, they recommend using a mineral-based sunscreen with zinc oxide or titanium oxide because they’re less irritating.

Having the right sunscreen won’t do you good if you don’t apply it correctly. Experts say to apply sunscreen approximately 20 minutes before going outside and to reapply it every two hours or sooner if your child is swimming or sweating. When applying, don’t forget behind the ears, neck, and the top of their feet because they tend to get overlooked.

Lastly, don’t be afraid of using too much sunscreen. A good rule of thumb is to use about a shot glass amount of sunscreen per application.

Protective Clothing

Besides sunscreen, it’s wise to invest in protective clothing to protect your child from the sun’s rays. Here’s what we recommend for choosing the right clothes. Buy clothes with tight weaves, like cotton, for better protection against UV rays. Contrary to what you may think, darker or more vibrant colors are better because they reduce the chances that UV rays will reach your child’s skin.

Another option is buying clothes with UV protection built in. Many brands offer kids’ clothes with up to 50 SPF or higher for superior sun protection. Since you’re going to the store to pick up clothes, buy a wide-brimmed hat to protect your kid’s scalp, ears, and neck.

Sunglasses

Most kids enjoy wearing sunglasses because they look cool, but they’re also perfect for protecting their eyes from developing cataracts later in life. Like sunscreen and clothes, look for glasses that block as close to 100% of UVA and UVB rays as possible. If your child wears glasses or contacts, check with your optometrist about getting UV prescription lenses.

Limit Sun Exposure

Kids naturally want to stay outside as long as possible, especially during summer. But limiting their outdoor activities between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. is better because that’s when the sun’s at its strongest. If they must be outside during those hours, plan activities under a tree, umbrella, or pop-up tent.

Be Aware Of Medications

Some medications, like antibiotics, can make your child more susceptible to sunburn. Check with your doctor for potential risks.

Examine Skin

Develop the habit of examining your child’s skin and notifying your pediatrician if you notice changes in the size, shape, or color of existing moles or if your child experiences bleeding, irritation, or scabbing. If you follow these tips and are diligent, your child can have fun in the sun while being safe.

Register for Our Summer Camps

Kids R’ Kids at Avalon Park offers exciting and educational summer camps. Our camps showcase weekly themes, and we have a variety of high-flying, mind-expanding, hands-on activities to make campers smile, think, explore, collaborate, and grow. Spots are filling up quickly, and space is limited. Contact us today at 407–306–9035 or reach us online.