Sun Protection for Children

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):

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