Summer Sun Safety Tips

June 25, 2010

Americans take suncare for children VERY seriously.  Take time to learn these sun safety tips and prevent sunburn.

APPLY SUNSCREEN DAILY.  Kids will fuss when you try to apply sunscreen.  Remember, you are the adult in charge and responsbile for their well being.   Apply sunscreen daily.  

 REMEMBER EASY-TO-MISS SPOTS.  The most vulnerable parts of the body are often the ones that get overlooked when applying sunscreen. To make sure your kids are covered, teach them “BEENS.” This useful acronym from Maryellen Maguire-Eisen, executive director of the Children’s Melanoma Prevention Foundation, stands for Back of knees, Ears, Eye area, Neck, and Scalp (if visible).   Bottom line: For a handy reminder, write “BEENS” on your sunscreen bottles.

BE GENEROUS.   We may all use sunscreen, but most of us aren’t putting on enough.  If you apply a third of the recommended dose of SPF 30 product, the protection is more like SPF 10.  Bottom line: Adults should apply an ounce (about a handful; see above), and kids half that much, of a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 every two hours, and more frequently if they’re swimming or sweating.

COVER UP.  To avoid burns when the sun is strongest (between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m.), dermatologist Elizabeth Hale recommends taking frequent shade breaks, wearing a UV-protective shirt while swimming, and using a sunscreen with zinc oxide.  Bottom line: “You probably can’t keep kids out of the mid-day sun completely,” says Dr. Hale. “So it’s important to be all the more vigilant about protection during those hours.”

SET A GOOD EXAMPLE FOR YOUR KIDS.   If your child sees you following sun-safety rules, he’ll take them for granted and follow suit. Skin protection is important for every member of the family, so team up with your children to stay protected when venturing out in the sun.  Trust me, you will be thankful when you are 40 years old you applied sunscreen.