Savvy Sun Care for Babies And Kids in Summer
Do you know how to protect your child’s skin? According to the Cancer Association of South African (CANSA), South Africa has one of the highest monitored ultraviolet (UV) levels in the world, resulting in one of the highest skin cancer rates across the world.
Everyone must take sun protection seriously, regardless of race or ethnic group. People with dark skin do have more protection from the sun as their skin contains more natural melanin, but anyone can burn in the sun and this causes skin damage. Sun protection for babies and children is paramount and parents must be proactive in preventing sunburn at any age.
Age Appropriate Suncare Recommendations
Young Babies – One To Six Months
- Avoid any direct sun – your baby’s skin is far too sensitive and with less melanin in the skin, it is very susceptible to burning. Sunscreen is not yet safe for baby’s skin.
- Get baby used to a hat as early as possible. Wide-brimmed hats are the best, or choose a bonnet that covers the back of the neck and ears.
- If you are going to be outdoors, choose light cotton clothing for baby and keep her arms and legs covered.
- Place a sun shield on the back windows of your car, especially on the side where your baby’s car seat is positioned.
- Avoid taking baby out into the sun between 11am and 3pm. If you want to take a walk, do so before or after these times and add a sun cover to your pram.
Older Babies – Six Months To One Year
- You can now use an appropriate sunscreen for baby. ‘Sun Protection Factor’ or SPF refers to the length of time the product will protect your skin. For example, if it takes five minutes for skin to start burning in the sun, a cream with SPF 20 will protect your skin for 20 times longer than five minutes. Choose factor 30 and above for your little one, although it is recommended to go with factor 50 for little ones in the heat of Summer.
- Select a sunscreen formulated for babies and children. Read the application instructions and apply (and reapply) as directed by the manufacturer for proper use. You should apply the product about 30 minutes prior to sun exposure.
- Remember to put on wide-brimmed hats and baby or kiddie sunglasses for extra protection.
Toddlers And Pre-Schoolers
- Now is the time to educate your child on the dangers of the sun and lay down good foundations for proper sun protection throughout your child’s life.
- Never let your child play outdoors without a hat. Sunglasses will also help to protect the eyes from the damaging effects of UV, and kids love looking cool in their shades.
- There are a number of products on the market that make applying sunscreen an easier job for moms with busy toddlers – these include wipes, sprays and sticks that can quickly be applied. Choose a high protection factor and waterproof sunscreen for toddlers and apply as directed.
- When applying to your child’s face, first apply to your hands and then dab onto the face.
- Avoid direct sun between 11am and 3pm. If unavoidable, choose a shady area.
- Buy swimming attire manufactured from ultraviolet protection factor (UPF) fabric which blocks out harmful UV rays. When buying swimming costumes for young children, choose a high rating of 30, 40 or 50+.
Credits:
Photo by frank mckenna on Unsplash.
Information: https://www.skincancer.org/