Skin Protection Tips

Sunburns are most common at that age when kids are off enjoying activities without their parents. About 2/3 of American children do not get adequate sun protection.

It's important to shield your children's skin from the damaging effects of the sun. Solar radiation, and ultraviolet (UV) light in particular, is increasing worldwide with the thinning of the protective ozone layer. Over 90% of ultraviolet radiation is UVA, which is most intense in early morning and afternoon, can pass through window glass, penetrates into the dermis, and causes tanning and wrinkling. UVB is most pronounced midday, does not penetrate window glass, and is associated with sunburn. Ultraviolet light has-been implicated in multiple human diseases from skin cancer tocataracts to immune suppression.
Sunburns and damaging tans more than double during a child's second summe. Sun protection depends on the fiber, weave, and fabric color. Sometimes a substance that blocks UV radiation is added to the fabric. The ultraviolet protection factor (UPF) of fabrics is similar to the SPF of sunscreens. Regular sunscreen use is postulated to reduce photodamage to skin. Protecting skin from the sun during childhood and adolescence is important in reducing cancer risk later in life. Choose hats that shade your child's face, neck, and ears. Choose shirts and slacks made of tightly woven fabrics that you can't see through when held up to light. Protect children younger than 6 months of age with clothing and keep them in the shade.
Don't forget fun food. Crackers, fruit, and cheese all make nice car snacks. Sunglasses that block UV rays protect eyes and the surrounding tender skin. All sunglasses are not the same. Effective sunglasses should block both UVA and UVB radiation. Large lenses that fit close to the eyes are best. Those that block visible blue light are even safer. Tanning booths and sunlamps are not a safe alternative to natural sun. They use UV rays that can cause damage. Encourage your children to appreciate the beauty of their natural skin tone. Prolonged exposure can damage the skin. Typical cotton T-shirts offers sun protection equal to only SPF. Excessive exposure to sunlight during early childhood is harmful to the eyes. Sunlight contains harmful UV radiation.
Sun Protection Tips
1. Protecting skin from the sun during childhood and adolescence.
2. Ultraviolet (UV) rays reflect off water, sand, and snow.
3. Choose hats that shade your child's face, neck, and ears.
4. Apply sunscreen every day on skin that is not protected by clothing or a hat.
5. Sunglasses that block UV rays protect eyes and the surrounding tender skin.
6. Tanning booths and sunlamps are not a safe alternative to natural sun.
7. Protect children younger than 6 months of age with clothing and keep them in the shade.
8. Choose shirts and slacks made of tightly woven fabrics that you can't see through when held up to light.
Juliet Cohen writes articles for skin care blog and hairstyles picture. She also writes articles for celebrity hairstyles.