We have reached the dog days of summer and it is vital to protect your kids’ skin from the harsh rays of the sun. Although the sun is an excellent source for vitamin D, it can also be hazardous to your health and especially kids who may become overexposed to the sun. Pack the sunscreen for camp, hiking trips and especially during trips to the swimming pool.
Children younger than 6 years old should avoid direct sun exposure because their sensitive skin burns easily. It is essential for babies younger than 6 months to stay out of the sun because they should not wear sunscreen, except possibly in small amounts in areas such as the face and back of the hands. If you allow your child older than 6 months in the sun, do the following things to help prevent sunburn:
According to WebMD Please consider the following steps of protection
- Keep children out of the strong midday sun (approximately 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.).
- Have children wear hats with wide brims that shade the neck, ears, face and scalp.
- Have children wear sunglasses with UV protection.
- Dress children in loose-fitting, tightly woven clothing that covers arms and legs.
- Apply sunscreen that has a sun protection factor (SPF) of 15 or higher to protect babies’ and children’s very sensitive skin. Apply the sunscreen at least 30 minutes before going in the sun. Reapply sunscreen every 2 to 3 hours or after sweating or swimming.
Most people accumulate the majority of sun damage by 18 years of age. This is why it is so important to start protecting the skin early in life to avoid skin damage and the development of skin cancer. As a beauty supply owner, consider placing skin protection at your POS locations and remind your patrons with bald heads to protect their scalp and neck.
Keep up the good work!
Credit: Specialist Medical Reviewer H. Michael O’Connor, MD – Emergency Medicine
