As summer arrives, children spend more time outdoors playing, swimming, and enjoying their holidays. However, children’s skin is particularly delicate and highly sensitive to the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays.
Excessive sun exposure can cause sunburn, dehydration, and increase the risk of skin problems later in life.
How can you protect your child?
- Avoid direct sun exposure between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m.
- Encourage children to wear a wide-brimmed hat and lightweight protective clothing.
- Use UV-protective sunglasses designed for children.
Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 50+) to all exposed skin 20 minutes before going outside and reapply every two hours and after swimming.
Make sure your child drinks plenty of water to stay hydrated.
Babies under 12 months should never be exposed directly to the sun.
What should you do in case of sunburn?
- Move the child to a cool, shaded place.
- Encourage frequent water intake.
- Cool the skin with lukewarm compresses.
- Seek medical advice if blisters, fever, severe pain, or general discomfort occur.
The sun can be beneficial when enjoyed safely. Teaching children good sun-protection habits from an early age helps preserve healthy skin throughout life.
