Love the skin you are in! Protecting your skin from harmful UV rays is the absolute best prevention against skin cancer there is. The American Academy of Pediatrics has put together some helpful tips on ensuring the whole family is protecting themselves appropriately from harmful sun exposure.
Babies Under 6 Months:
- Keep babies under 6 months old out of direct sunlight with an umbrella, stroller canopy, or shaded area.
- Dress babies in lightweight clothing that covers the arms and legs. Use brimmed hats to protect the head and neck.
- Use a minimal amount of sunscreen (at least 15 SPF) to apply to any places not covered with clothing.
Kids:
- Limit sun exposure between 10am and 4pm when the sun is its strongest.
- Dress in cotton clothing – it is both cool and protective.
- Sunscreen should be applied to all areas not protected by clothing. Reapply every 2 hours and after swimming or sweating!
- Wear a hat and sunglasses – the sun can bounce back from sand, water, and concrete!
The Whole Family:
- Look for “Broad Spectrum” sunscreen, as it protects from UV-A and UV-B rays.
- Sunscreens should be applied even on cloudy or overcast days.
- Try to wear sun-protective clothing, like swim shirts, if spending extended time outdoors.
- Don’t forget to apply sunscreen to places like the nose, ears, shoulder, and knees.
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