Protecting Your Child from the Sun: Your Essential Guide

Protecting children from the sun is vital because their delicate skin is more susceptible to damage from ultraviolet (UV) radiation. Overexposure to the sun can lead to sunburn, premature aging, eye damage, and an increased risk of skin cancer later in life. Taking proactive measures to shield children from the sun's harmful rays helps safeguard their long-term health.

Sun protection should start from infancy. Babies under six months old have extremely sensitive skin and limited melanin, the pigment that provides some natural protection against UV radiation. Keep infants out of direct sunlight and dress them in lightweight, long-sleeved clothing and broad-brimmed hats when outdoors.

Here are some key practices to follow when protecting your child from the sun:

Apply sunscreen: Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. Apply it generously to all exposed skin, including the face, neck, ears, and hands. Reapply every two hours or more frequently if your child is sweating or swimming.

Seek shade: Find shaded areas, especially during peak sunlight hours (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.), when the sun's rays are the strongest. This is particularly important for infants and young children.

Dress for protection: Dress your child in lightweight, loose-fitting clothing that covers their arms and legs. Opt for tightly woven fabrics that offer better sun protection. Don't forget a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses with UV protection.

Use accessories: Consider using a stroller with a built-in sunshade or attach a clip-on umbrella for added shade. Use a beach tent or portable shade structure when spending extended periods outdoors.

Extra precautions are necessary for water-related activities. Water reflects and intensifies UV radiation, increasing the risk of sunburn. Follow these guidelines:

Choose water-resistant sunscreen: Look for sunscreen specifically designed for water activities and labelled as "water-resistant." However, reapply after every two hours or as directed, even if the sunscreen is water-resistant.

Utilise protective clothing: Dress your child in a rash guard or swim shirt with UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) for added sun protection. Don't forget a wide-brimmed hat and UV-protective sunglasses.

Seek shade whenever possible: Take frequent breaks in shaded areas to reduce sun exposure during water play.

It is generally safe to use sunscreen on infants older than six months. However, it's recommended to consult with a paediatrician before using sunscreen on infants. In the case of babies younger than six months, it's best to keep them out of direct sunlight and rely on other sun protection methods like shade, clothing, and hats.

Signs of sunburn in children can include redness, pain, tenderness, blistering, and swelling of the skin. In severe cases, children may experience fever, headache, and general malaise. If your child shows signs of sunburn, it's important to provide immediate relief, such as cool compresses, aloe vera gel, and pain relievers if necessary. Seek medical attention for severe or blistering sunburns.

Childhood sunburns can have long-lasting effects on a person's skin health. Studies suggest that experiencing sunburns during childhood increases the risk of developing skin cancer later in life. Protecting children from the sun's harmful rays and promoting sun-safe behaviours from an early age can significantly reduce this risk.