Sun Protection: Keep Your Child Safe While They Play in the Sun

According to American Academy of Dermatology, just one sunburn during childhood can double their lifetime risk of melanoma, the deadliestform of skin cancer. Their young and sensitive is the most vulnerable to the sun’s damaging rays, making it important to protect their skin throughout the year. Your Gaithersburg, Maryland children's doctor Dr. Farnoush Jamali can offer helpful tips to keep your child’s skin as safe as possible.

Sun Protection Tips

SPF or sun protection factor determines the sunscreen’s effectiveness at preventing sunburn. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends using sunscreen with at least SPF 15, which can block 93% of UVB rays. Re-apply often and anytime they go into the water or sweat. Always test a new procedure on the inside of your child’s arm and wait 24 hours for any signs of rash or redness. Some sunscreens with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide are less irritating to the skin because their ingredients aren’t directly absorbed into the skin.

For babies, their skin is sensitive and can absorb too many chemicals quickly. Avoid applying sunscreen before they are 6 months old. Provide additional protection by keeping them out of the sun as much as possible and dressing them in lightweight clothing that covers their arms and legs. Your Gaithersburg, MD children's doctor can provide more helpful information pertaining to infants and sun protection.

In terms of sun protection, your Gaithersburg, MD children's doctor Dr. Jamali of Prime Pediatrics, can offer helpful tips for your particular children at their well-visits each year. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Jamali today, call her office at 301-977-2440.