Even if you never forget to use sunscreen during the summer, the rest of the year, when sunlight is not nearly as intense, may seem like less of a concern. However, you and your family need protection from the sun every day of the year as exposure can lead to lasting skin damage. Follow these tips from the Skin Cancer Foundation to ensure that your family stay safe whatever the season.
Tips for Year-Round Skin Protection for Kids and Adults
- Use sunscreen. Whenever you are outdoors, use a broad spectrum sunscreen (one that blocks both UVA and UVB rays) of SPF 15 or above. If you will be out in direct sunlight for several hours, use SPF 30 or higher. Apply a layer of sunscreen to any skin not covered by clothing, including lips, ears, around the eyes, neck, hands, feet, and even the scalp, if necessary. Re-apply every two hours as well as after swimming or sweating.
- Choose the right clothing. Long-sleeved shirts and pants in tightly woven fabric and dark or bright colors offer the best protection. Take note that the sun is able to reach your skin if you wear see-through fabric or wet clothes.
- Don a hat. A hat with a brim of at least 3 to 4 inches all the way round will shield your face, neck, ears, and scalp from the sun.
- Stay out of the sun. Whenever you have the choice, opt for the shade. Remember that if you sit near a reflective surface, under a tree or umbrella, the sun can still reach you.
- Avoid sunbathing. Tanning in the sun or, even worse, with an artificial tanning device, is dangerous for the skin and may lead to burns, premature aging, and skin cancer.
Your skin is not the only thing you need to protect from the sun year-round. Eyes are also in danger of damage if you neglect proper UV protection. Find a pair of shades for your child that block 100 percent of UV rays in Real Kids’ collection.