Children are particularly sensitive to the sun because of their thin and sensitive skin, which is still developing. Prolonged sun exposure and repeated sunburns at a young age can lead to an increased risk of skin cancer later in life.
Sun exposure recommendations:
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Babies up to 12 months:
- Babies should not be exposed directly to the sun during the first 12 months of life. Their skin is very sensitive and not yet fully developed to protect itself from UV radiation.
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Children 1 year and older:
- Young children may go out in the sun with bare arms and legs from the age of two, but only for short periods and not during noon when the sun is strongest.
- The rest of the body and head should always be protected with clothing and a hat.
- Exposed areas of the body should be liberally smeared with a sunscreen with high protection factor (SPF of minimum 30) and UVA protection.
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Children ages 3 and up:
- From 3 years of age, children should be systematically smeared with a water-resistant sunscreen product that provides high or very high protection (SPF of at least 30 and UVA protection).
- In bright sunshine, they should also wear a T-shirt and a hat to further protect their skin.
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Wetness of clothing:
- Never let children walk around in wet clothing, as wet clothing allows more UV rays to pass through than dry clothing. Water droplets on the skin even act like a magnifying glass and amplify the harmful UV effect. So always dry your child thoroughly after a swim and dress them in dry clothes.
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Hydration:
- Make sure children drink regularly and sufficiently to prevent dehydration and sunstroke, especially during hot days.
These guidelines help protect children's sensitive skin from the harmful effects of UV radiation while still allowing them to enjoy outdoor activities. It is crucial to carefully manage sun exposure to ensure long-term skin health.
