Spring is Here: Time to Protect Your Family from the Sun
Spring is in the air, which means summer is just around the corner, ready to follow the wind and rain. This is the perfect time to think about protecting you and your family from the sun. Every year, incidences of skin cancer rise, and the number one cause is excessive sun exposure. The problem is that it can take years for the damage from ultraviolet rays to show up, and when it does, it brings more than just wrinkles.
The Risks of Sun Exposure for Children
If you have children, you should be especially careful by following sun safety tips. Even 15 minutes in the sun can cause a sunburn in a child or in those with sensitive skin, leading to lifelong permanent damage. Every time you or your child gets a sunburn, you increase the risk of skin cancer in the future by tenfold. Remember, just because it’s not bright and sunny doesn’t mean sun damage isn’t possible. There are plenty of ultraviolet rays on cloudy days that can harm your family’s skin.
Every Day Is Sun Safety Day
The first sun safety tip is more about forming a habit. Instead of only thinking about the sun when you’re going on vacation or spending the day outdoors, think about it every day. After you shower, get your family into the habit of using a skin moisturizer that includes sunscreen. Look for sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15, which helps block both UVA and UVB rays. Choose products that perform double duty. For example, your foundation may contain sunscreen, keeping your face protected all year round. There are many mild moisturizers safe for children (over 6 months) that they should use daily. Don’t forget about your lips! A day outdoors can wreak havoc on them. Purchase lip balms or chapsticks that contain added sunscreen.
As a side note, remember that using sunscreen on infants or babies is not recommended. Before applying any sunscreen to your baby, consult with a pediatrician. There are several brands of sunscreen available for babies, but you should definitely check with your pediatrician first. Since babies cannot use sunscreen, your best option is to keep them covered with clothing, an umbrella, or in the shade.
Top Sun Safety Tips for the Whole Family
There are many other sun safety tips as well. Here are the top ten things you can do, in addition to wearing sunscreen, to keep you and your family safe from the sun:
Plan Your Outing Wisely: Try not to be out during the heat of the day. UV rays are at their strongest during midday, from around noon to 2 p.m. If you can avoid being outdoors during this time, you’ll reduce your exposure significantly. On your vacation at the beach, take lunch during these hours. If you must be outside during this time, make sure to find shade or use an umbrella for protection.
Cover Up: In addition to sunscreen, wearing clothes that cover your skin can help protect you. Many products are made from lightweight materials that block out UV rays and keep you cool. Most of these materials will still work when wet, unlike a typical t-shirt. Also, consider wearing cover-ups when you’re outdoors. The more skin you can protect, the better.
Wear a Hat: Every member of your family should wear a hat. While a ball cap will protect your face, it leaves your ears vulnerable. The ears are a common trouble spot for skin cancer. Opt for a wide-brimmed hat to shade your ears, face, and the back of your neck. If you’re not fond of large hats, make sure to apply sunscreen to the uncovered areas. Remember, if you’re near water, the sun’s reflection can cause sunburn, so continue wearing sunscreen.
Protect Your Eyes: The eyes are highly vulnerable to UV rays, and prolonged exposure can lead to cataracts later in life. Choose sunglasses that specifically block UV rays to protect your eyes.
Keep Sunscreen Handy: Always keep sunscreen in your glove box or bag next to your Band-Aids. You never know when you’ll be out in the sun for longer than expected. Having sunscreen on hand ensures you’ll be ready if a baseball game goes into overtime or an unexpected outdoor activity arises.
The main goal of these sun safety tips is to reduce the risk of skin cancer. While one or two bad sunburns may seem harmless, experts agree that even a few can significantly increase the chances of developing skin cancer. If you’ve tanned by baking in the sun or using a tanning salon, you’re severely damaging your skin and accelerating the signs of aging.
Dealing with Sunscreen Allergies and Medications
Some people may have allergies to sunscreen, as not all sunscreens contain the same ingredients. If one brand doesn’t work well for you, try another. You can also consult a dermatologist for recommendations or use sunscreens designed for children, which tend to be less irritating. If you’re using a waterproof sunscreen and spending a lot of time in the water, make sure to reapply it often.
One word of caution: If you’re taking antibiotics, they can significantly affect how your skin reacts to the sun. Many antibiotics come with warnings about avoiding direct sunlight. Other medications may also require you to stay out of the sun. Always check the label and ask your pharmacist about any potential risks.
The sun is enjoyable, and everyone loves that sun-kissed look. However, in the long run, too much exposure increases your risk of skin cancer and premature aging. As a parent, it’s your responsibility to keep your children safe. Cover up, use sunscreen, and enjoy the sun safely!
