Kids
need to be protected from the sun - children's skin is more delicate and
hence more prone to skin damage. That's why they need specific products
that have a high SPF, are easy to apply and are water-resistant.
Skincare specialists recommend applying sunscreen
generously all over the body before sun exposure and reapplying frequently,
especially after swimming. It's best to stay in the shade between 11am
and 3pm, and to keep toddlers under 3 yrs-old out of the sun.
Protection tactics
T-shirts, sundresses and other light summer
clothes, generally provide only limited protection so don't rely on
clothing alone. Protect your child's
head with a sunhat.
Waterproof sunscreen is important even if
you're nowhere near the sea. Non-waterproof lotions can be washed off
quickly by sweat.
Remember to use sun protection all over your
child's body - behind the ears, the underside of the nose, feet and
the backs of legs are often missed.
Whatever the colour of your skin, you and
your family should still use sunscreen. It's a myth that darker skin
protects against skin cancer.
Applying sunscreen 20 minutes before going
outside enables it to 'bond' with the skin, and gives better protection
than if you apply it when you reach the beach.
