A child’s skin is more sensitive to products and filters as their skin is still developing and its natural defences are weaker than in adults. The epidermis (outermost layer of the skin) is also thinner in children than in adults.
Too much sun is detrimental to children, but a certain amount of exposure is necessary for the production of vitamin D, which is essential for health. The answer is to be sun wise; children only need 10 minutes of sun exposure for production of vitamin D to take place.
It has been suggested that sunscreen could lead to a deficiency of vitamin D. Recent research has however shown that the body is still able to produce vitamin D, even when sunscreen has been applied.
The dangers of UV exposure without the protection of a sunscreen could lead to the development of skin cancer later in life.
Education is key
Teach your children about sun protection:
• Children spend up to 10 hours a week outdoors, mostly during school breaks and over weekends.
• Repeated sunburn could double one’s chances for the development of melanoma (a kind of skin cancer).
• 36% of children are overexposed to the sun and get sunburnt at least three times during the summer months.
• 50–80% of our lifetime exposure to the sun takes place before the age of 18.
Healthy living patterns are often established during childhood, and educating children with regard to being sun wise will lead to healthy sun habits within family units.
Sun tips
• Sun protection is vital; limit skin exposure by using a sunscreen, as well as wearing suitable clothing and a hat.
• Parents must apply sunscreen to their children every morning.
• Always stay hydrated as sun exposure leads to dehydration.
• Avoid direct sun exposure during the day, particularly from 11h00 to 13h00 as this is when the sun’s rays are the strongest.
• Adults should lead by example and always wear sunscreen.
SPF 50+ Spray for Children
• Very high sun protection for children with sensitive skin
• Fragrance-free
• Broad-spectrum UVA-UVB protection
• Water-resistant
• Leaves no white marks
• Photostable
• Silicone-free
• Paraben-free
http://www.health24.com/Lifestyle/Sun/Your-skin-and-the-sun/sun-protection-for-children-20161128 – Health 24