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Five safe sun tips for summer



Don't risk accidental burn

sun safety

 

A significant amount of sun-related skin damage happens from ages 6-18. Even when wearing a t-shirt, children are often at serious risk of "accidental burn". For instance, a white t-shirt provides an SPF of about 5 – hardly the protection needed to prevent sun damage.

Dr. Patty Agin of the Coppertone Solar Research Center has developed the following five safe sun tips that will keep campers protected with minimal intrusion in their fun-filled, Summer camp days:


1.
Apply. Apply. Apply.  Because the sun may cause damage immediately, remind kids to apply sunscreen before heading outside, even if they will be under trees! They should reapply every 80 minutes – even if the sunscreen is waterproof and sweatproof.


2. High SPF. 
Coppertone released SPF 70+ Ultra Guard and Sport Continuous Sprays this year – Clear, no-rub sprays that quickly cover the body at any angle for fast protection. Sprays allow for quick reapplication in less than 1 minute. Perfect for kids to spritz on themselves without getting hands greasy!

READ MORE: Make your own sunscreen!


3. Follow the shadow rule. If a kids’ shadow is shorter than they are, the sun’s rays are at their strongest. Cover them up with sun protective clothing, such as a hat and sunglasses and keep them in the shade during mid-day heat whenever possible!


4.
Just for kids! Coppertone created specialty formulated Kids Lotion SPF 50, which comes in an easy to apply spray formula as well as a rub-in lotion, making application convenient for kids.


5. See a dermatologist once a year for a skin check
– even kids can develop melanoma.  If detected early, melanoma can be treatable (survival rates for patients with early detection are about 99 percent but decrease depending on how far the melanoma has spread).