Sun protection for children

Young children need special care when they are in the sun. They love playing outdoors, but they are not aware of how the sun can damage their skin. So as a parent or carer, it is important that you take precautions for them.

Over-exposure to the sun’s harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays causes sunburn. Redness of the skin, however slight, is a sign that it has been damaged. Getting sunburnt as a child leads to a greater risk of skin cancer in later life. The good news is that sun damage can be avoided. Experts believe that in four out of every five cases skin cancer is a preventable disease. It is important that children, especially babies and toddlers, are given the protection they deserve.

Babies

Keep babies less than 12 months old out of the sun and in the shade. Loose fitting clothing will help keep babies cooler. Remember that babies cannot move around by themselves and may get hot and uncomfortable, if they become over-heated. Give your baby frequent drinks to help prevent dehydration.

Babies in Buggies

It is essential that at all times babies in buggies should use a sun umbrella, as quite often, arms and legs are exposed. Babies under the age of six months should be protected from the sun at all times. Ideally they should be kept in the shade as much as possible.

Toddlers and Young Children

Dress young children in loose, tightly woven clothing and a wide-brimmed hat when they are in the sun. Generously apply sunscreen – before they go out in the sun – to the parts of the body that remain exposed. Select a sunscreen with an SPF (Sun Protection Factor) of 15+ with UVA and UVB protection, apply your child’s sunscreen 2 hourly, more often if they are swimming or perspiring a lot.

Encourage children to play in the shade when the sun is strongest between the hours of 11am and 3pm.You can create your own shade with a beach umbrella or canopy, or take advantage of natural shade under trees. Choose sunglasses that comply with the British Standard – BS 27 24 19 87 or European Standard EN 1836 – remember to check the label.

If taking children in the car, make sure there is adequate ventilation and never leave them in the car unattended.

Tips for you and your child

Take care not to burn. Don’t be fooled by a cool breeze or light cloud.
Cover up with loose fitting clothing and wear a hat with a brim.
Seek the shade between 11am and 3pm when the sun is strongest.
Use a high-factor sunscreen with an SPF of 15+ and that has both UVA and UVB protection even on cloudy or hazy days.
If possible use a child’s sunscreen and patch test before using it.

Simple precautions can make all the difference and will help you and your children enjoy the summer more safely.

This is prepared by and kindly reproduced here by permission of the Irish Cancer Society. For further please call the Irish Cancer Society Cancer Helpline, Freefone 1800 200 700 (weekdays 9am-5pm).

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