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Screening Out The Sun

Screening Out The Sun

Sunlight on the skin is never kind, however, it is particularly damaging for children. Just one burn during childhood can significantly increase your child’s risk of developing skin cancer later on in life.

Protecting your little ones from the sun is an important part of caring for them...and it’s as simple as using the correct sunscreen and making sure they are well covered when playing out of doors.

Children are particularly vulnerable to the damaging effects of the sun. Since 90 percent of skin cancer is caused by repeated exposure to the sun, it is important to start protecting your little ones early.

Protecting Your Baby
Close to 40 percent of children suffer their first sunburn before they are one year old.

Babies under six months of age should not wear sunscreen as some of the components - however mild - can irritate a young baby’s tender skin. Babies should never be placed directly in the sun. (If you are outdoors, keep your baby in the shade to prevent sunburn and dehydration.) Whenever possible, use a parasol or other sun-protection device on the baby carriage and further protect your little one with a broad-brimmed hat. Clothes that are made of a tightly woven fabric will help protect your baby’s skin.

Protecting Your Child
One child in seven is at risk of developing skin cancer at some point in his or her life. Since 50 to 80 percent of ultraviolet (UV) radiation is accumulated before the age of 18, children should always be well protected from the sun. Here’s how:

Apply a sunscreen of SPF 30 or higher at least half an hour prior to sun exposure. Make sure the sunscreen provides protection against both UVA and UVB light.
Reapply sunscreen every two hours, especially after swimming or intense physical activity.
Try to limit time in the sun to before 10:00 a.m. and after 3:00 p.m. when UVA/UVB rays are less intense.
Dress your child in sun-protective clothing: a sunhat, long-sleeved shirt and pants.
Teach your children how to identify shade - created by trees, buildings, porches - and urge them to seek it out. (“when your shadow is shorter than you are, be sure to seek out the shade.”)
Remember that teaching your child good sun sense will help develop good sun habits during the teenage years!

Ombrelle Kids lotion SPF 30 and cream SPF 45 have been specially developed for a child's sensitive skin. Providing both UVA and UVB protection, Ombrelle Kids formulas are water-resistant, moisturizing and non-greasy. They contain no colourants and are fragrance-free. You will find the full range of Ombrelle sun care products at London Drugs.