FAQs
- What does SPF mean?
- Do I need to reapply water-resistant sunscreen after my child goes swimming?
- Why does my child get sunburned even when it's cloudy?
- Is getting a “base tan” before going on vacation a good idea?
- Should I go out in the sun to get vitamin D?
- Why do people get melanoma in areas of their body that are not exposed to the sun?
- How common are sunscreen allergies?
- Why should we be concerned about ultraviolet (UV) radiation?
- How long will sunscreen last after I purchase it?
- At what age can I start using sunscreen on my child?
What does SPF mean?
SPF stands for Sun Protection Factor. Something that many people are unaware of is that SPF is a greater predictor of the length of protection rather than the strength of protection. To find out more visit the Sunscreen section.
Do I need to reapply water-resistant sunscreen after my child goes swimming?
Yes. It is very important to reapply sunscreen, even water-resistance sunscreens, after your child gets wet. Whether your child gets wet in a pool, running through the sprinkler or sweating a lot at soccer practice reapply sunscreen often.
Why does my child get sunburned even when it's cloudy?
Clouds only block 20-40% of damaging UV rays. That means that as much as 80% of UV rays may reach your children’s skin even on cloudy days. Check the UV Index for a reading of the day’s UV forecast to help you plan for a sun safe day. The UV Index can be found in your local newspaper or you can check your UV index online.
Is getting a “base tan” before going on vacation a good idea?
There is no such thing as a healthy tan. A suntan is skin damage. The body produces melanin, the pigment in your skin, to protect itself from the damaging UV rays. Skin damage is happening while your skin tans and this damage can lead to skin cancer.
Should I go out in the sun to get vitamin D?
Experts recommend getting adequate vitamin D through vitamin supplementation or 5-15 minutes of incidental sun exposure (which can be accumulated before and after peak sun hours). If you are concerned with the amount of Vitamin D you are getting, try introducing some fortified foods into your diet like orange juice and milk. For more information, check out this article from the World Health Organization: Are There Beneficial Effects of UV Radiation?
Why do people get melanoma in areas of their body that are not exposed to the sun?
The skin is the largest organ in our bodies. Skin cancer can attack the melanocyte cells (moles) throughout this organ and manifest themselves anywhere.
How common are sunscreen allergies?
Fortunately, allergic reaction to sunscreen is very uncommon and, if one does occur, it is generally a minor reversible skin rash. Less than 1% of people have some reaction to some ingredients in certain sunscreens. Hypoallergenic and fragrance-free products are good choices especially for people already known to have skin allergies. PABA which was responsible for many people’s allergic reaction has been removed from most sunscreens.
Before a parent puts sunscreen on their child, they should perform a test by dabbing a small amount on the back of the child's hand. If a rash or itching develops, a doctor or pharmacist can help recommend products that might be better for the child's skin.
Why should we be concerned about ultraviolet (UV) radiation?
UV radiation is recognized by Congress, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and other agencies as a know human carcinogen. UV radiation is on the same list that cigarettes and asbestos are on and can cause some very serious health concerns. The sun’s UV radiation can cause skin damage, eye damage and in some cases skin cancer. Educating your family about sun safety and being a role model for your kids may help reduce possible diseases in the future.
How long will sunscreen last after I purchase it?
Unless the expiration date says otherwise, susncreen will last for about two years. So, when you buy your sunscreen write the date on the bottle with a permenant marker and dispose of it after two years.
At what age can I start using sunscreen on my child?
Do not use sunscreen on your child unless they are at least six months old. Before six months of age, keep your child out of the sun as much as possible and use shade, cover-up clothing, hats and sunglasses any other time. Remember that for kids of all ages, sunscreen should be used in conjuction with the use of shade, cover-up clothing, hats and sunglasses.
