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Sun Protection, facts you need to know
Sun Protection is critical for children
Estimates are that people typically receive about 80% of their lifetime sun exposure before the age of 18. The days of harmless "healthy glows", deep tans and "I burn and then tan" are over. While sun burns cause the most damage, many people do not appreciate that getting a tan can be damaging as well. After all, a tan is essentially cooking of the skin.
Awareness for the need of adequate sun protection is growing daily. Every year we see segments on sun protection on new shows (Tuga has participated on The Today Show, Good Morning America and The Early Show!) and in papers and magazines. And sun protection now goes far beyond applying SPF 15 once during the day. Proper sun protection now includes UV rated sun glasses, high SPF waterproof sunscreens, broad-brimmed sun hats and UV protective swimwear and even clothing.
Make Sun Protection a part of your kids life
It is absolutely critical to impart good sun protection habits to children at an early age. Just like wearing seatbelts has become an accepted part of kids’ routines when getting in the car, adequate sun protection needs to become routine among kids as well. That routine will continue to serve them well throughout their lives – and even if far down the road, when they are parents as well.
If parents practice good sun protection with their children when they are very small, they will be the ones reminding us to wear sunscreen, sun protection clothing and a wide-brimmed hat! And that is important, because adequate sun protection is critical for people of all ages, not just children. Dermatologists emphasize that although adults may already have had "a life’s worth of time in the sun", it is still critical to utilize proper sun protection steps to reduce the likelihood of increased damage. An initial body check with a dermatologist and then regular follow-up exams is highly recommended. Just as adults wear seatbelts too, they should practice smart sun protection habits just like they expect from their kids.
Some Smart Sun Protection Habits
- Use Sunscreen: At least SPF 15 is recommended, but the higher the better! For best sun protection results, apply 15-20 minutes prior to going outside and reapply during the day. Do not use for children under 6 months – they should not be in the sun at all!
- Wear Sun Protection Clothing / Sun Protection Swimwear: the less area exposed to damaging UV rays, the less area to worry about sunscreen.
- Put on a Hat: Wide-brimmed bucket hats and Legionnaire style hats ensure neck and face, two vulnerable areas, have sun protection. A hat with a published UPF rating is the best. However, don’t forget sunscreen on areas protected by hats.
- Wear Sunglasses: Introduce your kids early to wearing "cool shades" like their parents. Standard sun protection is "UV400" and sunglasses are important to
protect sensitive eyes.
- Take a Break: The best sun protection is to be out of the sun. Limit time in direct sunlight between 10 am and 4 pm, as this is the strongest sun of the day. This suggestion may be challenging as it is a good chunk of the day, but consider the best (and quietest) time at the pool or beach is often early or late in the day.
For more information on Sun Protection visit Sun Protection - educational website or Sun Protection at Medicinenet.com
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