June 2011

SUNSCREEN TIPS FOR KIDDOS

We all love that sweet little porcelain baby skin…so soft, smooth, and unscathed by the intense UV rays over the years. Help protect your little ones to keep this beautiful skin by following these skin care tips this summer. You will also help protect them from future sunscreen. Some research suggests that even one severe sunburn can nearly double the risk for melanoma. Hopefully this will help!…

  • Apply sunscreen BEFORE you leave the house. Applying SPF 15-30 minutes before sun exposure is optimal for protection. Plus, you can bribe them that they won’t get to go to the pool, lake, beach if they don’t put their sunscreen on first!
  • Use at least a 30 SPF or higher with broad spectrum UVA/UVB protection. I’ve written more details about this topic in February’s blog. It is recommended to use something with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. This is a physical block from the sun that doesn’t absorb into the skin and is less irritating which is much safer for kids. Blue Lizard is a great one that we sell in our Aesthetic Center.
  • Make sure you COVER them head to toe. A fun game to play with your kids is for them to remember BEENS which will help to remember the easily missed areas. Back of Knees, Ears, Eye area, Neck, and Scalp.
  • Reapply the sunscreen every 2 HOURS. Even the “water resistant” sunscreens still wear off. Even in the shade, 80% of UV rays will be absorbed. Be more cautious if they are in or near sand, water, and snow as it helps to reflects the sun.
  • HATS and SUNGLASSES are highly recommended by the American Academy of Dermatology. There are so many cute options out there that they can be protected, and remain stylish at the same time! Sunglasses are so important for the health of the eyes, helping to prevent sunburn of the retinas. They also make UV protectant clothing now as well with long sleeved shirts and hats that have the ability to block UV rays that are still comfortable for swimming.
  • Seek shade if you feel that they are getting sunburned. Remember that the strongest UV rays are between 10am-4pm.

It’s never too early to start practicing and encouraging healthy sun care tips for your kids!