The ABC’s of Protecting Your Children from the Sun

Sun protection for kids is essential year-round, whether they’re at the park, playing sports, or enjoying a family day outdoors. Harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays can cause sunburn, premature aging, and increase the risk of skin cancer later in life. By following these simple ABC’s, you can ensure your children stay safe under the sun.

A: AWAY

• Stay away from peak sun hours. UV rays are most intense between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Whenever possible, plan outdoor activities earlier in the morning or later in the afternoon.

• If avoiding peak hours isn’t feasible, be sure to take extra precautions like seeking shade and applying sunscreen.

B: BLOCK

• Block harmful UV rays with sunscreen. Choose a water-resistant, broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 15 or higher to protect against UVA and UVB rays.

  • SPF 15 blocks 95% of UVB rays.
  • SPF 30 blocks 98% of UVB rays. No sunscreen blocks 100%.

• Tips for application:

  • Apply sunscreen 30 minutes before sun exposure to give it time to activate.
  • Reapply every 2 to 3 hours, especially during outdoor sports or swimming.

C: COVER-UP

• Dress your kids for sun safety. Encourage them to wear:
  • Wide-brimmed hats for face, scalp, and neck protection.
  • UV-blocking sunglasses to protect their eyes from damage.
  • Long-sleeved shirts and pants when possible, especially lightweight, breathable UV-protective clothing.

S: SPEAK OUT

• Advocate for sun safety in your community.
  • Encourage local parks, schools, and sports facilities to provide shaded areas for children.
  • Share your knowledge about sun protection and skin cancer prevention with friends, family, and community organizations.

How to Choose the Best Sunscreen for Kids

When selecting sunscreen for your children, consider these key factors:

1. Look for Broad-Spectrum Ingredients

Choose products that contain:

• Avobenzone (Parsol® 1789)
• Mexoryl
• Zinc Oxide
• Titanium Dioxide

These ingredients provide effective protection against UVA rays, which cause long-term skin damage.

2. Consider Sensitive Skin

For younger children or those with sensitive skin, opt for fragrance-free and hypoallergenic sunscreens to reduce irritation.

3. Be Cautious with Spray Sunscreens

Spray sunscreens are convenient, but they often contain 60-80% alcohol, which can dry out the skin and feel cold during application. Always spray in a well-ventilated area and rub it in for full coverage. 

Don’t Let Clouds Fool You

Did you know that 80% of the sun’s UV rays penetrate clouds? Even on overcast days, your kids are at risk of sunburn. Never skip sunscreen, even if the weather looks gloomy.

Why Sun Protection Matters

According to the American Academy of Dermatology and the American Cancer Society, sun protection during childhood significantly reduces the risk of skin cancer later in life. Establishing a routine of sunscreen application and other UV safety measures ensures your kids grow up with healthy skin habits.

Final Sun Safety Tips

• Always keep sunscreen handy for spontaneous outings.
• Encourage your kids to take sun protection seriously by making it part of their routine.
• Remember: Sun safety is not just for summer—it’s a year-round responsibility!