When I moved to Florida from up north, I told my sister that I just couldn’t take another day of trying to wrestle my sons into their heavy, puffy winter coats. The tantrum-throwing, screaming toddlers hated to put on all that winter garb.
“Do you think sunscreen is any easier?” my sister, the lawyer who was arguing all the reasons I should stay close to her, coyly asked.
Every morning, as I try to lather up my little guys with gobs of lotion, they complain that I am the most overprotective mom they know.
“You’ll thank me in 20 years,” I say. “Trust me. I know.”
I hate to be a nag. But, that’s my job – as a mom and a person whose job is to give parents advice and travel tips.
So, now I am going to nag all of you parents out there who are headed to Florida:
Make sure your kids wear sunscreen and hats when you visit Florida's beaches and attractions.
Even on cloudy days, the sun’s rays cut through the clouds. I don’t care if the kids kick and scream as you apply…and re-apply.
If you don’t want to listen to me, listen to the experts:
Dermatologist Dr. Elizabeth Hale knows that the unprotected sun exposure people often seek can result in skin damage, premature aging or even certain types of skin cancer. “When the tan shows, the cellular damage is already done,” she warns.
In fact, according to the Skin Cancer Foundation, one blistering sunburn when you are young more than doubles your chance of developing a melanoma later in life.
So, whether outside in the city, at a beach or park, protecting your skin from damaging UVA and UVB rays is critical.
Dr. Hale says have fun, but be smart. “I recommend using a broad-spectrum sunscreen that provides UVA/UVB protection with a high SPF,” says Hale.
Protect your skin this summer with more guidelines from Dr. Hale:
▪ Apply. Apply. Apply. Because the sun may cause damage immediately, don’t forget to apply sunscreen before you go into the sun. Remember to reapply every 80 minutes and after swimming, toweling off or sweating (even if the sunscreen is waterproof and sweatproof).
▪ Double-Up. When you think you have applied enough…apply some more. It takes at least one ounce of sunscreen to properly protect your face and body. That means over a weekend you could easily use an entire six-ounce bottle of sunscreen. With sun protection, more really is better.
▪ Follow the shadow rule. If your shadow is shorter than you are, the sun’s rays are at their strongest. Cover up with sun protective clothing, such as a hat and sunglasses and head for the shade.
▪ Choose a sunscreen that you’ll actually use. If it feels good on your skin and is easy to use, you’ll be more likely to reapply.
▪ Products that withstand the elements are key. Whether you are playing volleyball, running on the beach or even surfing, use a sunscreen that is waterproof and ultra-sweatproof (so it won’t run into your eyes and sting).
▪ See a dermatologist once a year for a skin check -- no matter what your age. If detected early, melanoma can be treatable.
I will stop nagging now! Happy and sun-safe travels!
|
