As the weather warms up and families spend more time outdoors, protecting your skin from the sun becomes more important than ever. While sunshine has benefits like boosting mood and helping the body produce vitamin D, too much sun exposure can increase the risk of sunburn, premature aging, and skin cancer.
Here are some simple ways to help keep your family safe in the sun this season.
1. Use Sunscreen Every Day
Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher and apply it generously to all exposed skin. Don’t forget commonly missed areas like the ears, back of the neck, tops of the feet, and scalp lines.
Reapply sunscreen:
- Every 2 hours
- After swimming
- After sweating heavily
- After towel drying
For younger children, mineral-based sunscreens with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide are often good options for sensitive skin.
2. Avoid Peak Sun Hours
The sun’s rays are strongest between 10 AM and 4 PM. If possible, plan outdoor activities earlier in the morning or later in the evening.
When you can’t avoid midday sun:
- Take breaks in the shade
- Use umbrellas or canopies
- Stay hydrated
3. Dress for Protection
Lightweight, long-sleeved clothing can help protect the skin while keeping you cool. Wide-brim hats and UV-blocking sunglasses also help protect the face and eyes from harmful UV rays.
Bonus: Kids somehow lose sunglasses faster than socks disappear in the dryer, so keeping an extra pair nearby isn’t a bad idea.
4. Keep Babies Extra Protected
Babies younger than 6 months should be kept out of direct sunlight as much as possible. Use hats, lightweight clothing, stroller covers, and shade whenever outdoors.
5. Stay Hydrated
Warm weather and sun exposure can quickly lead to dehydration, especially in children who are busy playing outside. Encourage regular water breaks throughout the day—even before anyone feels thirsty.
Signs of dehydration may include:
- Dry lips
- Headache
- Fatigue
- Dizziness
- Dark urine
6. Watch for Signs of Heat Illness
Too much heat and sun exposure can lead to heat exhaustion or heat stroke.
Symptoms to watch for include:
- Excessive sweating
- Nausea
- Weakness
- Rapid heartbeat
- Confusion
- High body temperature
Seek medical attention immediately for severe symptoms or signs of heat stroke.
7. Don’t Forget Cloudy Days
UV rays can still reach your skin even when it’s cloudy or cool outside. Sun protection is important year-round—not just during beach days and pool parties.
Protect Your Family All Summer Long
A few simple habits can help prevent sunburns and keep your family healthy while enjoying time outdoors. If you have concerns about a changing mole, severe sunburn, heat-related illness, or skin health, schedule an appointment with your primary care provider.