How to be sun smart with your kids this summer! By Dr. Manal Adi

How to be sun smart with your kids this summer! By Dr. Manal Adi

Summer is a great time for kids to enjoy outdoor activities but it also brings on a lot of health and safety challenges. Studies have shown that even a  few serious sunburns can increase your child’s risk of getting skin cancer later in life. Be sun smart and plan your sun protection before going out with your kids using the following tips:

  1. Keep them in the shade when possible. Children need protection from ultraviolet rays whenever they are outdoors. Try to keep your child out of the sun when the peak ultraviolet rays occur, which is during midday between 10am to 4pm. Plan for indoor activities during that time if possible. Use extra caution near water and sand as they may reflect UV rays and result in sunburn more quickly.

Note: To prevent sunburns in infant, the American Academy of Paediatrics recommends to avoid sun exposure and to dress in light-weight, long-sleeved shirts and brimmed hats that shade the neck.

  1. Cover them up. Dress them in light-weight yet tight weave long-sleeved shirts and long pants/skirts to provide protection from UV rays. Some clothing brands are certified under international standards with SPF protection.
  2. Get them a hat. Most baseball hats don’t do the job. You need a hat that shades the face, scalp, ears, and neck.
  3. Buy them proper sunglasses. They protect your child’s eyes from the harmful UV rays which can lead to cataract later in life. Try to find ones that block 97% to 100% of both UVA and UVB rays.
  4. Apply sun block.

What?

Use a sunblock with an SPF of 15 or greater. Make sure it is broad spectrum with UVA and UVB protection. Always read and follow the instructions on the package of the sunscreen you buy. Not all products are suitable for children less than 6 months of age. Don’t store your sunscreen in very hot places as extreme heat can affect the protective chemicals. Check your sunscreen has not expired before you use it.

When?

Apply the sunscreen generously 30 minutes before going outdoors during the day even on cloudy days. Take the sunscreen with you and reapply during the day every 2 hours, and after swimming or sweating even if you are using a water-proof sunblock.

Where?

Apply to all exposed areas, including the ears, nose, lips, and the top of feet.

 

Remember, whatever your age is,  the best way to protect your skin from UV radiation is by combing the above tips. Plan ahead and keep your family’s sun protection handy!

By Dr. Manal Adi, Specialist Pediatrician ( Al Furjan , Jumeirah Park )

 

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