Everyone loves the sun, spending days on the beach or at the park enjoying picnics? What is there not to love. As a parent, however, you need to make sure you are clued up on how to protect your kids in the sun. It only takes a few serious sunburns to exponentially increase the risk of skin cancer when your child gets older. You do not need to be on the beach or in the pool to get too much sun either. Whenever they go outdoors, they are exposed to UV rays.
We have rounded up some amazing tips for keeping your little ones protected. Simple things like buying great U.V sunglasses are important (we like the range of EyeBuyDirect).
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Seek Shade Wherever Possible
During times of the day where the sun is intense and its most harmful, like midday, if possible, you should try to keep your kids indoors. If you cant do this, try and make sure there is adequate shade for them. Even if they are running around a park or beach, try and have a shaded area set up for them to take breaks in. Some good ideas for this are things like pop up tents or sitting under a tree.
Cover Up
On hot days, try and keep your kids in clothes with long sleeves and trousers that cover the skin. Darker colors and dry clothes also offer more protection than lighter colors and wet clothes. There are a lot of kid’s clothing brands out there now that have a range of clothes with UV protection technology in the material.
Hats!
If you can, make sure your kids wear a hat that covers their face and neck. Not only does this protect them from the UV rays, it also provides protection to the head from the heat. When the sun’s rays fall on our kid’s heads, this is the most significant cause of sunstroke. If your child wants to wear a baseball cap, make sure they have lots of sunscreen on their ears and necks.
Sunscreen
When choosing a sunscreen, make sure it is at a minimum, SPF 20. It should also protect from UVA and UVB. As crucial as your selection of sunscreen is, the way you apply it is vital too. Make sure you apply it at least half an hour before they go outside. Make sure you focus on the easily missed spots, the ears, nose lips and the tops of the feet. Remember to re-apply every 2-3 hours, and every time they get out of the pool to dry off.
If you follow these tips, your loved ones will be able to enjoy the sunshine and all that comes with it without worrying about skin cancer or sunstroke. Remember to follow the instructions on your sunscreen, especially if you are applying it to a baby or toddler. Keep an eye out for reactions the first time you use a new product, as well.