We all love a little summer sunshine and a dose of Vitamin D is also great for boosting your mood! But as we enter the summer months in South Africa, it’s prudent to be aware of the right skincare protection, sunburn prevention and best practice methods for the whole family.
Did you know that South Africa has some of the highest UV radiation levels in the world, making skin protection critical year-round? Even just one severe sunburn during childhood or adolescence can nearly double the risk or melanoma later in life. However, we also know that Vitamin D from sunlight is a natural mood booster and essential for building strong bones, so, below, we unpack how to keep your family safe, while making the most of the sunshine and great weather.
Tip 1: Choosing the right sunscreen:
Always pick an SPF of 30 or higher and apply generously at least 30 minutes before heading outside and then reapply every two hours at least or after every swim and sweat session. Babies under 6 months old should remain in shaded areas, dressed in protective clothing. For infants and toddlers, use sunscreen specially formulated for sensitive skin and dress them in full-coverage, breathable clothing.
What does SPF actually mean? And how does sunscreen actually work? Read more here.
Tip 2: Dressing for protection:
Choose wide-brimmed hats, lightweight but long-sleeved clothing (think safari!) and check the fabric to make sure that it offers protection especially for children and elders with thin skin. For little ones, make wearing hats and sunglasses fun with colourful designs or their favorite characters.
Tip 3: Choose your hours:
The sun’s rays are strongest after 10am and before 4pm, so plan your family beach visits or park sports for either early or late in the day. Encourage your children to play games in the shade or set-up picnic areas in shaded areas.
Despite the best precautions, we know that sunburn happens. If your children get sunburnt, immediately apply a cool, damp cloth on their skin or make sure they have a cool shower. Then, make sure they are adequately hydrated (How can you tell if you are dehydrated? Read this article here) with plain water and then moisturise their skin with aloe vera or a fragrance-free moisturiser to help prevent the skin from peeling. Need to know more about recognising the symptoms of sunstroke? Read more here. If your baby develops blisters from sunburn, it’s important to speak to your medical doctor.