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FUN IN THE SUN
Source:
http://www.aap.org/advocacy/archives/tanning.htm
For
Older Children:
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The
first, and best, line of defense against the sun is covering up. Wear a hat
with a three-inch brim or a bill facing forward, sunglasses (look for
sunglasses that block 99-100% of ultraviolet rays), and cotton clothing with a
tight weave. |
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Stay in the shade whenever possible, and avoid sun
exposure during the peak intensity hours - between
10 a.m. and
4 p.m. The risk of tanning and burning also increases at
higher altitude. |
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Sunscreen with an SPF (sun protection factor) of 15 should be effective for
most people. Be sure to apply enough sunscreen - about one ounce per sitting
for a young adult. |
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Reapply
sunscreen every two hours, or after swimming or sweating. |
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Some self-tanning products contain sunscreen, but others
don't, so read the labels carefully. In addition, tanning oils or baby oil may
make skin look shiny and soft, but they provide no protection from the sun.
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For
Young Children:
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Babies
under 6 months of age should be kept out of the direct sunlight. Move your
baby to the shade or under a tree, umbrella, or the stroller canopy.
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Dress
babies in lightweight clothing that covers the arms and legs and use brimmed
hats. |
| Apply sunscreen at least 30 minutes before going
outside, and use sunscreen even on cloudy days. The SPF (sun protection
factor) should be at least 15. |
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