Summertime is here, and that means spending time outdoors with family and friends. It also means plenty of sunblock, but do you know why it’s important? Over the last three decades, people in the U.S. have had more skin cancer than any other cancers combined.1
So before we start splashing around in pools, riding our bikes along the lakefront or enjoying backyard views this summer, it’s important to take care of our skin.
The Skin Cancer Foundation recommends the following guidelines to help protect you and your family’s skin against harmful UV rays2:
- It’s recommended to apply sunscreen with SPF 15 daily. If your child is outside for an extended time, use a broad spectrum, water-resistance sunscreen that contains SPF 30 or higher.
- Before your kids head outside, be sure to apply an ounce — about two tablespoons — of SPF 15 or higher sunscreen to their bodies half an hour beforehand. This should be repeated every two hours or right after swimming.
- If you have a child that is under six months, it is recommended to keep them out of the sun.
- During peak hours of 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., your children should remain in the shade.
- Inform your kids about the harmful effects of tanning and UV tanning beds. As a result, both practices are not recommended.
- Cover up! It’s important to wear light clothing, as well as a broad-brimmed hat and UV-blocking sunglasses.
- Check your children monthly to make sure they don’t have any suspicious spots, moles or skin marks.
- On a regular basis, it’s suggested you and your family see your physician annually for an exam.
1. http://www.skincancer.org/skin-cancer-information/skin-cancer-facts
2. http://www.skincancer.org/prevention/sun-protection/prevention-guidelines
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