80 percent of our total lifetime sun exposure occurs during childhood and sunburns early in life increase a child's risk for skin cancer later in life.

A child's skin burns four times more quickly and more deeply than an adult's skin, here are some tips on how to protect their sensitive skin:

1. Babies up to 12 months of age should NOT be exposed to the sun.
   
   
2. Protect your child with a high sun protection factor (SPF) and sun care products with UV-A and UV-B filters.
   
   
3. Chemical filter complexes need some time to take full effect as they remain on the surface of the skin.  Therefore it is better to apply sun protection 20 – 30 minutes before exposure to the sun for maximum benefit.
   
   
4. Re-apply sun protection after 90 minutes to 1,5 hours spent in the sun, after swimming, while playing and after drying with a towel, as the protective effect, even with water resistant products, diminishes through the length of time spent in the water, perspiration and rubbing.
   
   
5. UV rays are strongest between 11 am and 3 pm.  Avoid the midday sun! Move indoors and into the shade!
   
   
6. Use sun protection even in the case of indirect sunlight (e.g clouds, shade).  Sand, water and snow intensify UV rays; therefore it is important to use an adequate SPF for these conditions.
   
   
7. Certain drugs can induce sever skin reactions in combination with UV radiation.  If your child is taking any sort of medication, please ask your doctor about the reaction of this medication with intense sunlight.
   
   
8. Make sure that you never reach the point that your child’s skin reddens. Pay attention and act immediately to avoid any further damage to the skin.  The use of further sun protection does not allow your child to stay in the sun!
   
   
9. For additional protection wear a hat, sunglasses and textiles (e.g. cotton t-shirt) that is not easily penetrated by sunlight.
   
   
10. Particularly for children with lighter coloured skin, a dark suntan would come at a price: “Pay later” means years of even decades!
    
    
11. Be good to your child’s skin: Apply sun care products generously and frequently.  Cleanse the skin thoroughly after being in the sun to remove any remaining sun care product.  Soothe and moisturize the skin after exposure.
    
    
12. During sunbathing and other outdoor activities in direct sunlight, it is not recommended to use deodorants and perfumes as this could cause pigmentation marks.
    
    
13. Check your child’s skin in the evening, as sun damage can occur just hours after exposure.  Apply a soothing After Sun product and give the skin a rest for the next couple of days.
    
    
14. Even though children are eager to be outdoors, sun exposure should be watched carefully, only gradually extending the time in the sun.

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Brought to you by Baby Sebamed

Posted: 11 November 2008

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