Sun Safety Tips for Kids

Summer is just around the corner, which means kids will be spending more time outdoors. While it’s important that kids enjoy outdoor activities during the warm, summer months, it’s also important that parents protect their children’s skin from harmful UV rays.

Keeping Kids out of the Sun

Why is Protection from the Sun More Important for Kids?

Protecting your skin from the sun is vital at every age. However, according to the Skin Cancer Foundation, suffering from one or more severe sunburns during childhood can nearly double a person’s chances of developing melanoma later in life.

Preventative Measures Parents Can Take

Here are a few things parents can do to ensure their child’s skin is protected from the sun:

  • Dress children in protective clothing – Dressing children in brightly-colored fabrics can cause less sun exposure. It’s also important the children wear caps, such as baseball caps, and UV-blocking sunglasses when they’re going to be exposed to the sun for a long period of time.
  • Find a child-friendly sunscreen – If you’re struggling to find a sunscreen that is right for your child, look for a sunscreen that contains zinc oxide or titanium dioxide because they are less irritating than other compounds.
  • Apply sunscreen often – To ensure your child’s skin is blocked from the sun, apply sunscreen 15 – 30 minutes before going outside. Reapply sunscreen every two hours.

 

Consult your pediatrician for more information on keeping your child safe from UV rays.

 

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