Summer is finally here. Some of us have missed the sun so much that we may tend to let our guard down. It’s important to keep in mind that we need to protect our skin from the harmful effects of the UV rays, as best we can.
The skin of our little ones is thinner and more sensitive. Pay special attention to their protection. We need to prevent skin burns or damage that may occur due to exposure to stronger rays.
Sun protection is essential whenever your child is outside, not just on the beach or by the pool. Children can be exposed to strong sunlight even at home on the balcony, in the yard of the kindergarten/school, or in the park.
Here are some tips that will help you keep your kid protected:
Dress your little one in clothes that cover as much of his skin as possible. Choose lightweight fabrics that will not get too hot. On days spent at the beach, choose one-piece children’s swimwear that cover a larger area of skin. This will make it easier for you to apply the required amount of sunscreen to the exposed areas.
Children’s swimwear with UV protection.
For splashing in the waves, such a swimsuit is a must-have in your little one’s wardrobe.
Apply sunscreen on all areas left uncovered by the swimsuit. Choose a cream that has the SPF factor 50+. Also, it must offer protection against UVB rays as well as UVA and be water-resistant. Apply it on the face, arms, legs, and any other exposed area 20 minutes before you leave the house. Apply it again every 2 hours or after wiping your child with the towel.
Regarding the sun protection factors, there are several levels of them:
SPF 6-10 – small
SPF 10-25 – medium
SPF 30-50 – high
SPF 50+ – very high
Wearing a hat is also very important. Choose one that protects your child’s face, neck, eyes, and ears and is the right size to keep it from slipping. Also, try to keep your little one in the shade whenever possible.
Don’t forget about sunglasses. Invest in a pair of quality sunglasses with UV protection. We recommend choosing categories 2, 3, or 4. Category 0 or 1 does not provide enough UV protection.
Avoid exposure during the day when the radiation level is powerful. Usually, between 10:00 and 17:00 the sun’s rays are very strong. Avoid exposing your little one for short periods during this interval.
Besides all the above recommendations, don’t forget to be an example for your little one. Protect yourself and he will learn to do it as well.
Don’t forget that the sun is also our friend. Along with a balanced diet, sports activities, and enough hours of sleep, exposure to its rays contributes to our physical and mental health. Let’s be responsible while spending time outside!
