Sunscreen and beyond: How to keep kids safe in the sun

The time to have fun in the sun has finally arrived.

But having fun in the sun doesn’t mean you and your children need to suffer from having your skin overexposed to ultraviolet (UV) rays.

The skinny on sunscreens

Sunscreens protect the skin from the harmful effects of the sun and help prevent sunburn. Limiting time in the sun and using sunscreens can help prevent wrinkles and skin damage, such as skin cancer.

Sunscreens can absorb or deflect UV rays. They are divided into two main types:

* Organic (chemical) agents, which absorb UV light in a specific spectrum.

* Inorganic (physical) blockers, which reflect, absorb and scatter light. They are broad spectrum. These include zinc and titanium dioxide and are preferred by pediatric dermatologists.

Sunscreens are classified by the strength of their Sun Protection Factor (SPF), according to Dr. Yousuf. The SPF is calculated by comparing the amount of time needed to cause a sunburn on unprotected skin. While SPF 15 filters out 92 percent of UVB rays, an SPF 30 filters out 96 percent in general.

Selecting and using sunscreen

Sunscreens are available in many different forms including ointments, creams, gels, lotions, sprays and sticks. Consider the following when selecting and using sunscreen:

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends an SPF of 15 to 30 for children. More studies are required to test if an SPF 50 would offer extra protection.

Pick one that is waterproof, but be aware that no sunscreen is “waterproof” because all sunscreens eventually wash off. When applied correctly, waterproof sunscreen works for about 80 minutes.

Select a broad spectrum sunscreen that protects against both UVA and UVB rays.

Use a fragrance-free sunscreen.

Avoid the ingredient oxybenzone because it has hormonal properties, according to the AAP.

Use zinc oxide, an inorganic, broad-spectrum sunscreen that can be used as an extra protection on the nose, cheeks and ears.

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