After a long winter and weather that forces kids to stay cooped up inside, they are ready for some fun in the sun. With cookouts, parks, bike rides, and water summertime are when kids are at the biggest risk for sun exposure that can lead to sunburns. According to an article in the Washington Post titled Pediatrician-approved tips for protecting kids from sunburn, sunburns early in life can increase the chances of cancer and early aging later in life, but there are things that parents can do now to protect their kids in the future.
Protect and Cover
Protective covering is the best form of defense against the harsh summer sun. Kids should get used to the idea of wearing sunglasses and hats any time that is in the sun. This will give them important protections for their eyes and face. Clothing should not be seen though. It should be thick and dark, making it less likely for the sun to penetrate the clothing. There is clothing that can be bought that has SPF made into the fabric. If parents are unable to buy the SPF clothing then there are alternatives available. WebMD tells us that “The Skin Cancer Foundationrecommends a laundry additive that contains a sunscreen called Tinosorb FD”. (Miller) These additives are good for several washes so that your child’s clothing will give them overall better protection from the sun’s unforgiving rays.
Sunscreen Musts
According to Parents.com, the most dangerous sun exposure is between the hours of 10 am to 3 pm. This may be the time of day for more indoor activities. If that is not an option, sunscreen is a must. The parent should use a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30. Sunscreen must be reapplied often throughout the day. Each brand will have different instructions for how often to reapply. Parents need to read these instructions carefully and follow them. Even waterproof sunscreen calls for reapplying. Make sure to get the face, ears, top of the head, feet, and the back of the knee. These are often the forgotten places on the body.
Sunburns Happen
Everyone knows that even the best plans do not always work out. If a sunburn does happen the best thing a parent can do is to help heal-and-soothe the skin to reduce the itch and burn that accompanies that burn. Parents can use aloe to help with the burning feeling. Cool baths and compresses can help take the burn away from the skin. Loose clothing should be worn so that there is no pulling or tight feeling on the skin. Ibuprofen can also be taken for the pain.
When teaching your children the advantages of protecting one’s self from the sun make sure you are adhering to our own rules and advice. Kids mimic what they see and hear and will imitate their parents. Do not go looking for that perfect tan if your kids are not allowed to. Protecting the skin and body needs to be a family activity.
