Q: What are some tips for staying safe in the summer sun?

by Lyndsey M. Carlson, RPA-C

A: It’s only natural that children want to be outside in the warm summer weather, but it is important to protect their sensitive skin from the sun’s potentially harmful UV rays. The sun’s UV rays are the strongest between 10 AM and 4 PM, so limiting sun exposure during these times is ideal. Dressing your children in lightweight, tight-weave fabric and brimmed hats to cover them up as much as possible is also helpful, especially for infants under 6 months old. Sunscreen use in babies under 6 months should be limited to areas that cannot be covered by clothing, such as the face and backs of the hands; only small amounts of sunscreen should be used on these areas. Therefore, it is important to keep babies in the shade as much as possible. Over 6 months of age, sunscreen can be applied full-body, avoiding the eye area.

When choosing a sunscreen, look for one that has “broad spectrum” protection, as this will shield from both UVA and UVB sunrays. Sunscreens with an SPF of 15 or greater should be used – the higher, the better! Make sure to apply sunscreen about 30 minutes before going outside to give it time to soak into skin. Because things like sweat and water can decrease effectiveness of sunscreen, reapplication is recommended every 2 hours. If sunburn does occur, offer cold compresses on the skin, cool baths, acetaminophen, and keep skin moisturized. If there is any blistering or fever associated with sunburn, call your doctor for further evaluation.