What Type of Suntan Lotion Should Kids Use?
Drugstore shelves overflow with suntan lotions to choose from, but when picking one for a child be sure to know the facts about what to watch for and what to avoid. Does this Spark an idea?
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Age
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Using sunscreen on babies under six months old is not usually recommended, but the American Academy of Pediatrics now endorses the use of it if shade or protective clothing are not available.
Differences
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Sunblock works by reflecting the sun's rays using zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. Sunscreens contain chemicals that protect the skin from the sun's UV rays by absorbing them. Some products combine sunblock and sunscreen to offer broader protection.
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UVA
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Protection from UVB rays is designated by the SPF (sun protection factor) value on the front of the sunscreen, but be sure to find one that protects from UVA as well--this is usually called broad spectrum protection.
Types
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For children, be sure to find a lotion that is waterproof or water-resistant. The SPF for children should be at least 15, with a higher one used for children with fair skin.
Sensitive Skin
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Kids that have skin that is easily irritated should use a product labeled as free of PABA (para-aminobenzoic acid) or a sunblock labeled for sensitive skin. Hypoallergenic and chemical-free options are available as well.
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References
Resources
- Photo Credit Image by Flickr.com, courtesy of Robert S. Donovan
