Tips to Avoid a Sunburn

How Do Sunburns Happen?

UV rays react with a pigment called melanin in the skin.  The lighter a child's natural skin color, the less melanin it has to absorb UV rays and protect our body's largest organ-the skin.  Regardless of your child's skin tone, all kids need protection from UV rays to prevent damage.  Here are some tips for having fun in the sun without getting a sunburn.

Tip #1:  Timing Is Important

Limit time in the midday sun. UV rays are strongest between 10 am and 4pm so it's important to limit sun exposure during these hours.

Tip #2:  Be A Good Role Model

Consistently wear sunscreen to teach your kids good sun sense! Apply sunscreen 30 minutes before going outside and reapply every 2 hours after being in the water or sweating.  Most of the sun's rays go through clouds so use sunscreen even on cloudy days. Make sure your sunscreen is SPF 30 or higher and protects against both UVA and UVB rays.

Tip #3:  Children Under 1 Year Of Age

Try to keep children under the age of  1 year out of the sun as much as you can.  Dress babies in lightweight, light colored clothing and always cover their head.  Don't forget about protecting ears, hands, feet or lips. 

Do not use sunscreen on babies 6 months or younger!

Tip #4:  Medicine Check

If your child is on any medication, make sure to double-check the warning labels.  Some medicines make skin more sensitive to UV rays-especially antibiotics and acne medicines.

Tip #5:  When Sunburns Happen

What if my child gets a sunburn? Apply moisturizing creme with aloe on the burn.  You can also give your child ibuprofen or Tylenol-Do NOT give aspirin to children or teens.  Benadryl can help with itching and swelling.  Most importantly, stay hydrated and drink plenty of water.  Keep children out of the sun until the sunburn has healed.

If you have questions about your child's skin, give us a call today!  We see everything from sensitive skin to full blown rashes.  We are here for you!