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Babies and toddlers are particularly vulnerable to sunburn, and taking the right precautions is crucial for their long-term health. Dermatologist Bianca Tod explains why young children’s skin is more sensitive and provides essential tips for parents on how to keep their little ones protected from the sun.
Why Are Babies and Toddlers More Vulnerable to Sunburn?
Young children’s skin is thinner and less protective than that of adults. This makes it more susceptible to the harmful effects of UV radiation. Additionally, babies and toddlers have less effective thermoregulation, making them more prone to overheating and dehydration.
“Children are more likely to dehydrate or develop heat stroke because their ability to control body temperature is less efficient,” says Dr. Tod. This underscores the need for extra care during sunny days to avoid serious health risks.
Long-Term Consequences of Childhood Sunburn
Sun exposure during childhood is strongly linked to an increased risk of skin cancer later in life. Melanoma, the most dangerous form of skin cancer, is particularly associated with sunburns in childhood. In fact, just two instances of severe sunburn can double the risk of developing melanoma.
In addition to melanoma, childhood sun exposure has also been connected to basal cell carcinoma, the most common form of skin cancer. “Sun exposure directly causes DNA mutations, and early exposure increases the chances of these mutations accumulating over time,” Dr. Tod explains.
How Parents Can Protect Their Children
While it’s essential for children to enjoy outdoor activities, there are various steps parents can take to ensure their kids are safe from the sun:
- Avoid direct sun exposure in infants, especially those under 6 months of age.
- Educate children about sun safety, teaching them how to take care of their skin.
- Avoid midday sun (from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.), when UV radiation is strongest.
- Check the UV index before heading outside. A UV index of 3 or higher requires sun protection, and levels of 8 or more should be avoided altogether if possible.
- Dress children in protective clothing such as long sleeves, and opt for items with a UV protection factor (UPF) where possible. Dark-colored, densely woven fabrics also offer protection.
- Use hats and sunglasses to protect the eyes from ultraviolet damage.
- Apply sunscreen to exposed skin with an SPF of at least 50, reapplying it regularly. Mineral sunscreens or those formulated for babies are preferable due to their gentler ingredients.
- Seek shade whenever possible.
- Monitor for overheating and dehydration, especially in infants, who are more prone to these conditions. Ensure prams or strollers are well-ventilated and not too hot.
Balancing Sun Protection with Vitamin D Needs
There is ongoing debate about the balance between sun protection and obtaining enough vitamin D. While sunlight is a natural source of vitamin D, most dermatologists recommend getting it through food—such as oily fish, egg yolk, and fortified products—rather than direct sun exposure.
“Most children can get sufficient vitamin D from incidental sun exposure and a balanced diet,” Dr. Tod states. However, for children at risk of deficiency, such as those with restrictive diets or darker skin tones, a blood test can help determine whether supplements are necessary. It’s important to manage dosage, as excessive vitamin D can be harmful.
Recognizing the Signs of Sunburn
Sunburn can appear differently depending on skin type. In lighter skin, the signs are usually redness, swelling, heat, and blisters. Darker skin types may not show visible redness, but the skin may feel hot, sensitive, or painful. Itchiness and peeling may occur later.
In addition to the long-term effects, parents should watch for immediate concerns such as heat stroke and dehydration, particularly in infants. Signs of dehydration include fussiness, reduced urine output, and thirst.
What to Do If Your Child Gets Sunburned
If your child experiences a mild sunburn, it can be treated at home with cool compresses, hydration, and pain relief such as paracetamol or ibuprofen. However, moderate to severe sunburns may require medical attention or even hospitalization.
Conclusion
With careful precautions, parents can ensure that their children are protected from the dangers of sunburn. By educating children about sun safety and following these protective measures, we can reduce the risks of future skin damage and skin cancer, helping them enjoy the sunshine safely.
Article provided by The Conversation
