Enjoy the fun in the sun safely!
Good skin care and protection must begin at an early age. We live in a sunny country where children love to play outside on a warm sunny day. Here’s how we can help kids enjoy their fun in the sun safely.
Sunblock
Sunblock is a must when it comes to skin protection from the sun. Choose the right sunscreen for your child by making sure it’s broad-spectrum (protects against UVA and UVB rays) and is labelled water-resistant if children are near water. Apply a generous amount and reapply often.
Avoid the strongest rays of the day
UV rays are the strongest and most harmful at midday so it’s best to plan indoor activities. If children are outside during this time, seek shade under a tree, an umbrella or a pop-up tent. Most sun damage happens from exposure during the day to day activities. Even on a cloudy, cool or overcast day, UV rays reach the earth. This invisible sun can cause unexpected sunburn and skin damage.
Cover up
One of the best ways to protect your child’s skin is to cover up with long-sleeved shirts and pants. Clothes made from natural materials such as cotton, linen, silk or bamboo offer the best comfort. Another option is UV protective synthetic fabrics. It’s best to keep babies, especially those under 6 months, out of direct sunlight.
Get a hat
Hats are a wonderful way to keep the sun from reaching our face and eyes, both of which can be easily damaged by the sun. Wide-brimmed hats that shade the face, scalp, ears and neck are a preferred option.
Wear sunglasses
Sun exposure can damage the eyes and over time can cause cataracts later in life. The best way to protect eyes from UV rays is to wear high-quality sunglasses that provide 100% UV protection. Choose close-fitting sunglasses that wrap around and block as close to 100% of both UVA and UVB rays as possible.
Following these tips will go a long way in helping your children enjoy themselves in the sun while taking healthy precautions. You will reduce their risk of sun damage and teach your children good sun sense.