Sun Protection 101

As we step into summer weather and activities, there are a few things to consider to make sure our families are protected from the elements.

DR. WHITEDR. FEATHERMANPEDIATRICS

Dr. Kendra Featherman and Dr. Christine White Deeble

7/19/20242 min read

As we step into summer weather and activities, there are a few things to consider to make sure our families are protected from the elements.

Wear Head and Face Protection

Make sure to plan for shade and sunhats anytime the sun is bright, especially for kids. We recommend sunhats from Sunday Sunhats (no affiliation), as there are lots of great options for adults and kids.

The Kids’ Play Hat is what I prefer for children, although sizing can be tricky unless you want to get your tape measure out. Here is what I recommend: small hats work great for babies, medium for toddlers 2-4 years and then large for 5+ years.

Avoid Peak Exposure Hours

Avoid long exposures in direct sunlight from peak UV hours around 10am-4pm. This is the time to REALLY apply sunscreen regularly on kiddos (and yourself).

Wear Sunscreen

Babies can start wearing sunscreen at 6 months old and should be a mineral based sunscreen.

Babies under 6 months old shouldn’t be in direct sunlight as they cannot regulate their body temperature and easily become overheated (or if around water, they can become too cold). Around 6 months is when they can start regulating their temperature and it’s safer for them to have short excursions in warmer weather.

Recommended Sunscreens

For sunscreens look for zinc based Environmental Working Group (EWG) Certified sunscreen like Babo Baby Face Sunscreen which is easy to order from stores like Target, Amazon or Thrive Market. I like this sunscreen has it comes in a stick applicator (like a tiny stick of deodorant) which is much less mess than a lotion when slathering a squirmy toddler.

A great local option for sunscreen is KeliGreen which is organic, has excellent ingredients and you can get local refills to reduce waste!!

Treat Sunburns

If you or your child do get a sunburn, make sure to keep hydrated, as enough sun for a sunburn usually equates to mild to moderate dehydration. You can use aloe vera gel and a cold compress of chamomile tea topically on the sunburn to help soothe and heal the skin. If there is severe redness, the sunburn looks shiny or any blistering this should be seen by a doctor.

For older kids or adults, another good option is to increase the intake of antioxidants such as vitamins A, C, and E along with the minerals zinc and selenium. An easy option is Carlson’s brand supplement called ACES+Zinc. For teens, dose by body weight or check with their physician. For adults, take 2 capsules 2 times daily with an additional amount of Vitamin C as tolerated up to 5000-6000 mg a day. This can be very helpful with resolving the burn faster. If you take too much Vitamin C too close together in dosing, you can get a loose bowel. However if your need is high, such as with a sunburn, you can likely tolerate a higher dose than usual.

Homeopathic Cantharis is also helpful with burns of any kind. Get a 30c potency, take 3 pellets 3 times a day with an acute burn for up to 2-3 days until it starts to feel better.

If the burn is severe, seek some personalized medical advice from your physician.