Before the family hits the beach this holiday weekend, make sure you’ve got all the right sun protection in place. Remember, everyone is at risk: Children especially should guard their sensitive skin, and learn the basics for a lifetime of sun safety. Below are a few expert tips.
Sunscreen basics: Look for a broad-spectrum sunscreen that blocks UVA and UVB, with an SPF of at least 15. Apply as much sunscreen as you can — imagine the size a golf ball. Use it on any area that’s exposed to the sun, including chest, ears, hands and around eyes and mouth. Reapply every 90 minutes you’re outside, or after getting wet.
Stay in shade: Adhere to the “shadow rule” — if your shadow is shorter than you, that means the sun is directly overhead. Time to head indoors.
Dress for sun: Even SPF and a T-shirt don’t protect you from the rays. Wear sun-protective clothing, like long-sleeved shirts, pants and even swimsuits that are specially designed to minimize sun exposure. Pick up a sun guard detergent that coats clothing in a UPF protection of 30.
Top it off: Go for a broad-brimmed hat, preferably with a back flap, rather than a baseball cap, to protect the face, ears and neck. Complete the look with dark sunglasses with “Total UV” protection.
See a doctor: Visit a dermatologist for a yearly skin cancer screening. Get examined right away if you notice any moles that itch, bleed or change in size, shape or color, or any skin lesion that doesn’t heal.
Visit playsafeinthesun.org.