The sun is the symbol of life and power. The sun-worshippers of old consider it a God. Some tribes and nations made it their symbol. The first day of the week is named often it. But over-exposure to sunlight always has adverse effects to us humans. Wearing of headdress had become of daily life in some tribes and nations, another reminder of how the sun influences the culture of men. Modern sun protections include the sunglasses and sunscreens. But the old protection gadgets are here to stay, the hat, umbrella, shawl and scarf.
Recent medical research has shown the importance of protecting children from over-exposure to sunlight.
Ultraviolet Light
There are two types of ultraviolet sunlight. The ultraviolet A (UVA) and ultraviolet B (UVB). The UVA rays penetrate deep into the skin causing invisible damage without reddening or pain, but causing damage deep within, increasing the risk of malignant melanons. UVB ray is the one that cause sunburn, the direct and visible damage of outer skin. It is important then that children be trained early in life to avoid over-exposure to sunlight. Here are some guidelines for parents to follow w/c are aimed to avoid skin problems due to over-exposure to sunlight.
Avoid mid-day sunlight
Solar radiation varies with time. Early morning and late afternoon sunlight have a reduced radiation intensity and therefore beneficial in promoting sufficient Vitamin D synthesis in the skin. But midday sunlight from 10:00 am to 3:00pm has the strongest radiation intensity. Children must be trained to avoid the midday sunlight to keep their skin from damage. Remember also the other factor of skin damage, which is skin type. The lighter the skin, the greater is the chance of skin damage.
Use of Sunscreen
Sunscreen is the modern man’s chemical shield to protect the skin from harmful radiation. It is also commonly known as sunblock, sun tan lotion, sun cream or block out. Light skinned children should be taught to use sunscreen regularly. Before going outside they should apply sunscreen with SPF (sun protection factor) of 15 or higher. The American Cancer Society recommended the use of sunscreen for preventing skin damage. Apply sunscreen 30 minutes before sun exposure.
Wear a hat
Teach your child the important use of the hat as protection from intense sunlight. Make him choose the hat he’ll enjoy wearing.
Wear sunglasses
Sunglasses protect the eyes from the glare of intense midday sun. This makes the skin and muscles around the eyes more relaxed for not being subjected to frequent squinting.
Use an umbrella
An umbrella protects the child from sun and rain. Three folds umbrella can fit inside a bag or backpack. It protects the child upper body from the heat of midday sunlight.
The earlier you train your child the awareness of sun protection, the better for him or her. Light skinned children should know that they are more susceptible to skin damage than the darker skinned children.
– Guest post contributed by Suzzane “Suzzy” Gindi, the owner of FlawlessBeautyandSkin.com. Suzzy is married to Jack Gindi with a cute baby boy. She attended various beauty care trainings and seminars in the Philippines. Selling quality beauty products is her business including best skin bleaching products and St Dalfour ingredients.