|
Sunscreen Scoop
Sunscreen may be easy, but it doesn't protect your child's skin
completely. Try combining sunscreen with other "Choose Your
Cover" options to prevent UV damage.
Sunscreen comes in a variety of forms — lotions, sprays, wipes, or
gels. Be sure to choose one made especially for kids with:
- Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of 15 or higher
- both UVA and UVB protection
For most effective protection, apply sunscreen generously 30 minutes
before going outdoors. And, don't forget to protect ears, noses, lips, and
the tops of feet which often go unprotected.
Take sunscreen with you to reapply during the day, especially after
your child swims or exercises. This applies to "waterproof" and
"water resistant" products as well.
Keep in mind, sunscreen is not meant to allow your kids to spend more
time in the sun than they would otherwise. Sunscreen reduces damage from
UV radiation, it doesn't eliminate it.
The American Academy of Pediatrics now advises that sunscreen use on
babies less than 6 months old is not harmful on small areas of a baby's
skin, such as the face and back of the hands. But your baby's best defense
against sunburn is avoiding the sun or staying in the shade.
Ccontent provided by:
United States Department of Health and Human Services
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion
Division of Cancer Prevention and Control
|