When taking your child out to play or for a walk, it is important to remember that the sun's rays are the strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
Sunscreens are designed to basically block the sun's rays. The "Sun Protection Factor" (SPF) is a measure of how much protection the sunscreen offers. For example, an SPF of 30 means that a child can stay out in the sun 30 times longer than without the sunscreen. The recommended SPF is 15 (at the very least) and the sunscreen should be "broad-spectrum" (protects against both UV-A and UV-B light rays).
Sunscreens should be applied 30 minutes before sun exposure because it takes some time for them to work on the skin. Remember that even "waterproof" sunscreens need to be reapplied every two hours.
Make sure that all potentially exposed areas are covered including the nose, cheeks, tops of the ears and the shoulders. While putting sunscreen on the face, avoid the eyes. If the screen burns the eyes, try a new type or one that can be applied with a stick applicator.
Never use suntan oil, as it offers no protection and causes the skin to burn quicker. In addition, sunscreens that contain PABA should be avoided.
Sun rays can go through clouds and can cause damage even on cloudy days. In the shade, the sun's rays can bounce from sand, concrete or snow, so keep that in mind as well. Sunglasses with UVA/B protection are also recommended.
Babies less than six months of age should be kept out of direct sunlight. Baby should be dressed in clothing that covers all of the body (long sleeves, long leg pants etc.). Put your baby in the shade( i.e...under a tree, stroller canopy etc.).
Hats or bonnets are also necessary, a baseball cap is the recommended head gear in order to protect the face. Also, tightly woven clothes offer better protection, than clothes with a wider weave.
If your child gets sunburn, keep him/her completely out of the sun until the burn is fully healed.
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Ian Smith travels extensively in the tropics with his children, and uses a few simple precautions to protect them from the sun, check them out here Children and Sunburn on Vacation
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