Child Health 411

The Perils of Summer Part Five

Hemera

Most of us have suffered the wrath of a day of fun in the sun. But, it doesn’t have to be a rite of passage for your child this summer. Here are a few tips to protect your child from the sun.

Q. Is it safe to apply sunblock to a baby under six months of age? The packages say, “Ask a doctor.”

Yes! Previously, we recommended applying sunblock to babies over six months because newborns have sensitive skin and might be bothered by the lotions. However, one of the greatest risks of skin cancer is early sun exposure and skin damage. So, it’s more important to protect the skin. If you use sunblock and your baby develops a rash, then you should chat with your doctor about alternative products.

Q. What sunscreen is best?

Any sunblock with an SPF of 30 or greater. And, be sure to reapply it every two hours or after getting sweaty or swimming.

Q. Do I need to apply sunblock on cloudy days?

Yes. The sun rays still can be a risk to your child’s skin.

Q. Are there other ways to protect my child from sun damage?

Yes. Avoid the peak sun hours of 10am to 4 pm every day. And, if possible, have your child wear a hat and sunglasses. Kids are more likely to do this if Mom and Dad are doing it as well. So, make a fashion statement and be a good role model!

Q. If my child has olive-toned or dark skin, do I need to worry about using sunblock?

YES! All humans who have skin should wear sunblock! It is true that people with darker pigmented skin are less likely to develop skin cancer, but there is still a risk and prevention is easy.

Q. My child has been out in the sun this summer and he now has some white splotches on his face. Do I need to worry?

Probably not. If your child has eczema or has gotten a rash or two on his face this past year, that area of skin may not tan this summer. But, the rest of the skin does — leaving white areas. After summer is over and that old skin sloughs off, his skin will be even-toned again.

Q. What’s the best way to treat a sunburn?

Apply cool water or a cool pack to the area. Try a soothing gel, like aloe vera. If the area blisters up, do not pop it. That blister is nature’s band-aid. If it does pop, apply an over-the-counter antibiotic ointment and cover the area with a non-stick dressing. I also suggest lots of fluids and some TLC!

Read more from the Perils of Summer series:

• Part One: A Mysterious Summer Rash
• Part Two: Seven Mysteries of Poison Ivy
• Part Three: Your Questions About Swimmer’s Ear
• Part Four: What’s Bugging You?
• Part Five: Say Adios to Sunburns

Are you taken the necessary steps to protect your child from the sun? Post your comments and concerns on the Parenting Community.