The onset of summer means more time spent enjoying outdoor activities and more time in the sun. More sun exposure means an increased risk of developing skin cancer, including the potentially deadly melanoma, later in life. For parents, the risk is something to ponder and preventing sunburn can reduce longer-term risks. Of course, children are at a greater long-term risk as they have many decades of life expectancy ahead of them. Let’s review five tips for preventing sunburn in children.

Sunburn Prevention with Sunscreen

If you are planning a long pool or beach day and limiting sun exposure is not a practical choice, use sunscreen. Anyone who has ever shopped for sunscreen products knows that there is a plethora of choices. Pediatricians recommend using a sunscreen product rated SPF 30 or higher. Look for a product that offers protection from both UVA and UVB rays and which is water resistant. Apply the sunscreen to the child’s skin prior to going outside. Sunscreen will eventually wash off and it is recommended that you reapply it at least every two hours (or less) for maximum effectiveness.

Prevent Sunburn with Hat and Sunglasses

In addition to using sunscreen, child protection can be provided using a hat and sunglasses. Look for sunglasses that offer at least 99 percent UVA and UVB protection. For a day at the beach, bring an umbrella along to provide relief from the sun. Short of an umbrella, having a hat can also offer some needed protection from the sun.

Avoid Peak Hours

Protecting children from those damaging rays from the sun is important. For starters, preventing sunburn in children can begin with limiting exposure to the sun between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. when the sun’s rays are at their peak intensity. It is recommended you keep children outside only for limited periods of time during these hours.

Purchase Protective Clothing

If your children are going outside for longer periods of time, consider having the child wear protective clothing. When using protective clothing, look for those rated SPF 30 for protection from the sun’s damaging rays. If your kids are going to be outside during peak hours, this type of clothing can go a long way to helping protect their skin.

How to Prevent Sunburn from Peeling

If your child has suffered sunburn, you may be wondering how to prevent sunburn from peeling. While it cannot always be avoided, it may be prevented by cooling off with a short cold shower and applying aloe to the area afterward. Avoiding the sun until the burn has resolved will also decrease the risk of peeling.

UrgentMED has you Covered

If you or a loved one has suffered a sunburn that may need medical attention, the medical professionals at UrgentMED stand ready to assist you. With 17 convenient walk-in urgent care clinics throughout southern California, we offer fast professional service without a long wait. We offer weekday, weeknight and weekend hours to serve you for your convenience. Let us assist you with all your healthcare needs. Visit the location nearest to you today.