When your child is outside, remember the ABCs of skin protection:
A: Away. Stay away from the sun between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. when the sun's damaging UV rays are most intense.
B: Block. Use sunscreen with a sun protection factor of 15 or higher. Sunscreens should block both UVA and UVB. The higher the SPF rating, the more protection your skin has. Apply sunscreen about 15 to 20 minutes before going outdoors. Reapply sunscreen at least every one to two hours. Reapply sunscreen immediately after washing or towel drying.
C: Cover up. Wear a T-shirt, sunglasses and a hat with a visor or adequate brim.
S: Speak out. Talk to your family and friends about sun protection. Make sure your child care provider has sunscreen for your child to use when playing outdoors.
Children younger than 6 months should not have prolonged exposure to the sun. However, if adequate shade or protective clothing is not available, apply a minimal amount of sunscreen to the baby's face and hands.
If your child does suffer a sunburn:
» Put him or her into a cool bath or use cool compresses on burned areas.
» Give acetaminophen or ibuprofen to help relieve the pain.
» Apply aloe gel, hydrocortisone cream or a topical pain reliever to burned areas. Avoid Benadryl and benzocaine, Vaseline or moisturizers that trap heat into the skin.
Remember to examine your child's skin each month for unusual growths. Skin cancer only partially comes from the sun. Ask your doctor if you are concerned about a growing or changing skin lesion.
Deb McGregor is prevention supervisor for Children's Service Society of Wisconsin's Lincoln County Family Resource Center.
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