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Sun Safety

Young babies and children are extremely vulnerable in the summer months and extra care needs to be taken to protect them. Babies under 6 months should be kept out of the sun, their skin is sensitive and they risk overheating. Older babies and children should be allowed in the sun for a limited time and be well protected. Burning at a young age can lead to serious problems later in life, including skin cancer. Read our advice below:

Use of Sun Cream

Sun creams can offer protection against the two main types of UV radiation that damage the skin - UVA and UVB. Broad spectrum sun cream offers protection against both UVA and UVB, a formula with an SPF of at least 30 and at a minimum of four UVA stars is ideal. The easiest way is to apply the cream liberally before the children get dressed. This means you’re less likely to miss any patches, like the back of the neck, and allows some time for the cream to soak into the skin.

Sun Cream Washes Off

Use waterproof sun cream when they are playing in swimming pools or the sea. It still needs to be reapplied frequently and especially after toweling them dry.

Sun Cream at School

Remember that children are outside at school for break and lunch times. It is worth looking at the 10 hour protection creams, as school cannot apply sun cream for you. If you are unable to get the longer lasting cream, at least send them in with a layer of the highest protection you have.

Hats

To encourage your child to wear a hat, take them shopping to choose one. There are so many styles around and it is worth trying to find one they really like, as they will want to wear it and that’s half the battle! A wide brim hat is preferable, but a hat is better than no hat at all.

Clothing

Try to dress children in cool cotton clothing that is baggy and close-weaved. The sun can still penetrate thin clothing, so ensure you cream them all over.

Sunglasses

Kids love sunglasses so as soon as you can get them used to them. Don't be tempted to buy too cheap, I know the children break them and lose them, but the toy sunglasses can do more harm than good.

Shade

Stay in the shade as much as possible, especially with babies. Under trees, parasols and canopies make lovely areas that the children can play under.

Sun Facts

• Babies burn faster than children or adults
• You can burn in the shade from reflected light
• A wet t-shirt lets through nearly as much sun as no shirt
• Don't wait till you feel hot, 10am sun burns as much as 2pm sun
• Reapply sun cream at least every two hours and after swimming
• Cloudy days can be dangerous if you take no precautions - UV radiation still gets through cloud
• Watch out - cooling winds and water can make you think you are not getting burnt

Good Habits to Get Into

• Plan your outings to avoid the midday sun (11am-3pm)
• Have picnics and play in the shade
• Always pack a hat and a long-sleeve top
• Keep hydrated with regular drinks of water

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