| Fact:
Sun protection for children
is not only important, it is essential.
According
to the American Academy of Dermatology, it is estimated that because
children spend a lot of time outdoors, they receive an average of
three times as much sun exposure.
The American Academy of Dermatology also says
regular use of sunscreen before the age of 18 is very significant to
lowering the chance of skin cancer; It
is estimated that by the time we reach about 18 years of age we will
have received 80% of our lifetime's sun exposure. Research is
showing us that if we wear sunscreen with an SPF of 15 regularly
prior to the age of 18, the risk of "certain skin cancers"
will be reduced by 78%.
Other measures of sun protection for children such as hats, sunglasses and long sleeved shirts are also important
defense against sunburn, accumulation of sun damage and other sun over exposure risks.
Dermatologists recommend that children should wear a minimum *SPF of
15, sunglasses, wide brimmed hats, long-sleeved T-shirts and avoid
the mid day sun.
Coleman Roadtrip Beach Shade
is an excellent light weight, portable way to get your little ones
out of prolonged intense sun exposure on outings to the park, the beach,
camping etc. (their are also larger "family sized"
versions)
*Higher SPF if that child is fair, with light colored eyes
and freckles OR spends a lot of time outdoors.
Plus...*Special emphasis on sun protection for children to include
sunglasses...
Eyes need protection from ultraviolet light
just as the skin does. Even more vulnerable than adult eyes, are
children's eyes. Children up to fourteen years of age, are three times
as vulnerable to UV ray damage.
Make sure they have proper sun
protection daily that includes sunglasses with UV light filtering
lenses.
Choosing Sunscreen/ Sunblock for Children:
Sunscreen is a top measure of sun protection for
children. When choosing a product, make sure that it is broad spectrum
with a good SPF level and that it is age appropriate (*babies require
special formulations in addition to protective clothing).
These
ingredients
are proven to cover the full UVA/ UVB spectrum (not
just part of a ray spectrum)
Chemical Blocks (absorb UVR): AVOBENZONE
(Parsol 1789)
Physical Blocks (reflect UVR): TITANIUM
DIOXIDE, ZINC OXIDE
For
Children:
For
babies 6 months and older:
Banana Boat Baby Magic Sunblock Spray, SPF 48
provides broad-spectrum UVA/ UVB protection, is water proof,
hypoallergenic, gentle and easy to use.
Specifically for kids, try
Banana
Boat Kids Sunblock Lotion, SPF 30
"Banana Boat® Kids sunblock provides broad-spectrum UVA and UVB protection
in a gentle, hypo-allergenic, and fragrance-free lotion." It
contains titanium dioxide and is waterproof too. All
ages (6
months and up):
For outdoor activities that include swimming try
Banana Boat Ultra Sunblock Lotion, SPF 30
with Titanium Dioxide or Coppertone Sunblock Lotion, SPF 45
with Parsol 1789.
Sea & Ski Sport Sunblock Lotion, SPF 50 ; "Sport
Sunblock SPF 50, with Micronized Zinc Oxide, is for the real sports
enthusiast who demands advanced protection against UVA/UVB rays."
It is sweat proof, water proof, non greasy and contains antioxidants and
the physical barrier zinc oxide.
Plus You may want to consider a
special formulation for your face/ your child's face since facial
skin tends to be more sensitive than the rest of the body's skin.
Tips on
Choosing Sunglasses
More
information about sunscreen and smart sun protection.
Click here, type in kids sunglasses and get a great selection with price comparisons and reviews, in Clothing and Accessories.
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