Summer is a time for families to enjoy outdoor activities and soak up the sunshine. However, it is important to keep in mind that prolonged exposure to the sun’s harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays can lead to sunburn and other skin damage. Sunburn can cause significant damage to a child’s delicate skin and increase their risk of developing skin cancer later in life. With July being UV Safety Awareness Month, it’s the perfect time to talk about how to protect your children from sunburns.
The Importance of Sunscreen
Sunscreen is a crucial tool in safeguarding your child’s skin from harmful UV rays. When selecting a sunscreen, opt for a broad-spectrum one with an Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of 30 or higher. Apply it generously to all exposed areas of your child’s body, including their face, ears, neck, and hands. Remember to reapply every two hours and more frequently if your child is swimming or sweating.
Seek Shade
Spending time outdoors is vital for a child’s development, but it’s equally important to seek shade during the peak hours of sun intensity. Aim to keep your child out of direct sunlight between 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. When planning outdoor activities, consider locations with natural shade, such as parks with large trees or covered picnic areas.
Protective Clothing
Choosing the right clothing can greatly reduce your child’s risk of sunburn. Opt for lightweight, loose-fitting garments that cover as much skin as possible. Look for clothing with a tight weave that provides better sun protection. Additionally, wide-brimmed hats and UV-blocking sunglasses are essential to shield your child’s face, neck, and eyes from the sun’s harmful rays.
Stay Hydrated
Hot weather and sun exposure can quickly lead to dehydration, which can exacerbate the effects of sunburn. Encourage your child to drink plenty of fluids throughout the day, even if they don’t feel thirsty. Water is the best choice, but you can also offer them fruit juices or sports drinks to replenish electrolytes lost through sweating.
Teach Sun Safety Habits
Teaching your child about sun safety from an early age is crucial to developing lifelong habits. Explain the importance of sunscreen, seeking shade, and wearing protective clothing. Encourage them to take breaks from direct sunlight and engage in activities that don’t involve prolonged sun exposure, such as playing under a canopy or reading indoors during the hottest part of the day.
Recognizing and Treating Sunburn
Despite our best efforts, sunburn can still occur. If your child develops sunburn, it’s essential to act promptly. Cool baths, cold compresses, and a moisturizing cream can help alleviate the discomfort. However, if the sunburn is severe, accompanied by fever or blisters, it’s crucial to seek medical attention.
Protecting our children from sunburn should be a top priority for parents. By following these sunburn safety tips, including consistent sunscreen application, seeking shade, choosing protective clothing, promoting hydration, and teaching sun safety habits, we can ensure our children enjoy the outdoors while minimizing the risks associated with sunburn. Let’s prioritize their skin health today to safeguard their future well-being.
Little Spurs Pediatric Urgent Care opened in 2006 in San Antonio, Texas. With multiple locations in San Antonio and Dallas, they are open seven days a week with extended evening hours and see walk-in patients or through an online check-in system. They accept most commercial insurance and Medicaid plans.
