Fun (But Safe) in the Sun

Protection from the sun’s rays is something everyone should be concerned about, as skin damage can happen at any age. However, it is particularly important for kids because it has been shown that most skin damage occurs in childhood and adolescence. Sunburn can happen any time of year, but is much more prevalent in the spring and summer months as warming temperatures encourage everyone to be outside more. Peak times for sun exposure are 10am to 4pm.  Repeated skin damage from the sun is directly linked to increased risk of skin cancer. Begin teaching your kids at an early age about the importance of skin protection, sunscreen, and how to avoid sunburns. 

What is the UV index?

The UV index is defined as the “standard measurement of the strength of sunburn-producing ultraviolet radiation at a particular place and time.” Several environmental factors contribute to the UV index, including elevation, season of the year, latitude, ozone, cloud cover, and reflective surfaces. For example, here in Colorado we have to take into consideration the strength of the sun’s rays due to higher elevation. It takes far less time to burn at a higher elevation. Last summer my shoulders were sunburned just in the time it took to walk from the parking lot to the soccer fields to watch my kids play – it sounds dramatic, but it is true! 

Be careful of reflecting surfaces such as water, sand, and snow, because these will increase your exposure even if the UV is low.  This reflected UV light can cause sunburn and skin damage unexpectedly in a shorter amount of time. In many weather apps for smartphones it will list the UV index. Make it a habit to check before venturing outside and lather yourself and your children up if it is over 3. Reapply every 2 hours. 

Which sunscreen is best?

There are hundreds of sunscreen products on the shelves, so it can be hard to choose between them. A few “essentials” to look for in sunscreens are:

• SPF of 30 or greater. There is minimal evidence to show that SPF over 50 is any more protective. 
• Broad-spectrum. This will protect against UV-A and UV-B sun rays.
• Water resistant. This will help protect for 40-80min when kids are in the water. 

A few other tips include:

• avoiding sunscreens with PABA if your child has sensitive skin. 
• Zinc oxide is a great barrier cream but it does not rub in. 
• Avoid spray-on sunscreens in children, as they become aerosols and kids can breathe in the fumes. 
• Use sunscreen sticks around the eyes for good coverage without causing irritation of the eye. 
• The AAP recommends considering using a sunscreen that does not contain the ingredient oxybenzone, a sunscreen chemical that may have effects on hormones.

Who needs to use sunscreen?

The simple answer? Everybody! The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) recommends sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher for kids of all skin tones. Although darker skin tones do have more protective melanin, they can still receive painful sunburns if not protected. 

You as the parent should also wear sunscreen routinely – this is another area in which you can be a good role model for your child! Apply sunscreen 15-30 min prior to going outside. 

Sun safety tips by age:

Babies under 6 months:  

• As a general rule, infants under 6 months of age should stay out of the sun, especially during peak hours. Keep them in the shade as much as possible. 
• If sun exposure is unavoidable, dress your infant in light-weight, breathable long sleeves and pants, and make sure to use a hat. Still, be very mindful of hand and face exposure. 
• The American Academy of Dermatologists recommends that sunscreen be avoided in babies under 6 months. 

Toddlers and Older Children: 

• The absolute best way to keep your child protected from the sun is to stay in the shade or covered up during peak sun hours. 
• Use wide-brimmed hats and sunglasses.
• Apply sunscreen of at least 30 SPF to any exposed skin, and reapply every 2 hours if your child is still in the sun. 

Teens: 

• According to the CDC, only 10% of high schoolers wear sunscreen if they are out in the sun for more than one hour (data from 2013). Only 10%!  
• Encourage your teen to wear light-weight, breathable long sleeves and pants if in direct sunlight during peak hours. 
• Teens should apply sunscreen of at least 30 SPF to any exposed skin, and reapply every 2 hours if still in the sun. Wear sunglasses to protect they eyes.  
• Avoid indoor tanning, as this still exposes the skin to harmful UV rays. In fact, make sure your teen knows there is no safe way to tan. 

The bottom line of today’s message is this: have fun in the sun but do it safely! Protect yourself and your children from the sun’s harmful rays and you will have a much more enjoyable summer AND reduce the risk of developing skin cancers. 

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