SUN PROTECTION 101

It’s estimated that 1 in 5 Americans will develop skin cancer in their lifetime. Don’t let cloudy days fool you! Up to 80 percent of UVA/UVB rays can penetrate our skin even during overcast days.

The most important to consider when choosing sun protection for your family are an SPF of 30 or higher, water resistance, and broad-spectrum protection meaning that it protects against UVA and UVB rays.

My family keeps 3 types of sun protection in our bag.

The first is a cream we use for our body. I love physical sunblocks that reflect the sun’s harmful rays instead of absorbing and dispersing radiation like chemical sunscreens. Look for options that use titanium dioxide or zinc oxide which block the sun’s damaging rays.

We use a stick formulation of sunblock for our face which is easier to use for squirmy children who don’t like having a cream rubbed into their face.

The last form is a mineral spray to protect vulnerable scalp. This is a great option for those kids who don’t like wearing hats consistently.

Closing thoughts followed by some tips!

– Limit sun exposure between the hours of 10am and 2pm when the sun’s rays are more direct.
– Reapply every 2 hours or after swimming.
– Use clothing barriers like hats, long sleeves, pants with broad-spectrum protection when you can!

Warm up physical sunscreens in your hands and pat onto skin for an even layer that helps avoid the white cast that is common. Allow 15 minutes for the product to settle onto your skin.

Apply sunscreen to the tops of your feet, neck, ears, and the top of your head. Don’t forget your lips! Apply a lip balm containing sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher.

We can all have fun in the sun while doing our best to protect our skin!