Safety In the Sun:

Information for Parents About Sunburn & Sunscreen

No doubt about it: Bright, sunny days help establish the vibe for outdoor fun, but the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays can also harm us. That damage most commonly occurs in the form of sunburn.

As our kids spend increased time outdoors this summer season, it’s important to shield them from these harmful risks. Here are simple rules and reminders about how to protect your children – and yourself – from painful sunburns.

Sunscreen: A Refresher Course

Sunscreen can protect the skin from sunburn and some skin cancers – but only if used correctly. It’s also important to choose the right product.

• Buy a sunscreen that says “broad-spectrum” on the label – indicating that it will screen out both UVB and UVA rays – and look for a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 15 and up to SPF 50).

• Choose a mineral sunscreen with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. These products are available in bright, fun colors kids enjoy. Avoid spray sunscreens or those with bug spray and sunscreen combined into one product.

• Use enough sunscreen to cover all exposed areas, especially the face, nose, ears, feet, hands, and even backs of the knees.

• Apply sunscreen 15 to 30 minutes before going outdoors so it can best absorb into skin, and reapply every two hours and after swimming, sweating, or toweling off with a towel.

Extra Caution For Babies

• Keep babies younger than 6 months out of direct sunlight. Find shade under a tree, an umbrella, or stroller canopy.

• If protective clothing and shade are not available, use sunscreen on small areas of the body, such as the face.

• For babies older than 6 months: Apply to all areas of the body, but be careful around the eyes. Use mineral sunscreen with titanium dioxide or zinc oxide. If a rash develops, talk with your child’s doctor.

• If your baby is younger than one year old and gets a sunburn, call your pediatrician right away. For older children, call your child’s doctor if there is blistering, pain, or fever.

Be An Example

Be sure everyone in your family knows how to protect his or her skin and eyes. Remember to set a good example by practicing sun safety yourself. Talk with your pediatrician if you have any questions about sun protection for your child.

For more summer safety tips, visit healthychildren.org for more American Association of Pediatrics recommendations. Visit freemanhealth.com/pediatrics for more information about pediatric services at Freeman Health System.