The sun is a valuable ally for our health and brings important benefits. In addition to stimulating the production of vitamin D, which plays essential roles in our body, sunlight and the sensation of warmth promote our general well-being.
Sunny, warm days invite us to do outdoor activities, such as going to the beach or swimming pool, playing sports or having picnics. All of these activities are very desirable, but it is important to take the necessary precautions to avoid undesirable effects caused by the sun.
Children are MORE SENSITIVE TO SUN RAYS than adults, and their skin becomes red and sunburned more easily. This is because their skin is thinner and more sensitive, and the pigmentation process, which offers some protection, is still developing.
What can we do then?
“1. No one should expose themselves to the Sun whenever the UV Index is equal to or greater than 11.
2. In the case of children, this value is lower and, for UV Indexes equal to or greater than 8, they should not be exposed to the sun, even with all protective measures implemented. This means, for example, that in the summer months children should not be on the beach between 11 am and 4 pm.
3. Sun protection measures include: cool, long-sleeved clothing, hats, preferably with brims, sunglasses with UV filters and sunscreen.
4. Use the appropriate sunscreen correctly and always have fresh water available to stay hydrated."
But what is the right sunscreen? And what is the correct way to apply it?
"There are essentially TWO TYPES of sunscreens that differ in their composition and mechanism of action:
- Physical sunscreens that reflect UV radiation and are broad-spectrum, effective against both UVA and UVB radiation. Many of these sunscreens are thick, difficult to spread, leave a whitish residue and can dry out the skin.
- Chemical sunscreens absorb and retain radiation, preventing it from reaching the skin. They are easier to spread and should be applied 30 minutes before sun exposure. They degrade with sun exposure and can lose effectiveness with bathing, excessive sweating and friction with sand and beach towels, so they should be reapplied every 2 hours or after bathing."
The ideal protector is one that is capable of:
1. Block UVA and UVB radiation
2. Have an SPF 50+ (Sun Protection Factor)
3. Be water and friction resistant (still needs to be reapplied!)
Source : Portuguese Society of Pediatrics in Child and Family
