Spending time outdoors is a fantastic way to stay active and reduce stress. But prolonged exposure to the sun and harmful UV rays can significantly increase your risk of developing skin cancer if you fail to properly protect your skin.
From investing in UPF clothing for the entire family to learning how to properly apply kid's sunscreen, taking a consistent, proactive approach to sun protection should be a daily habit for every family, regardless of age, skin colour or geographical location.
Sunscreen
Sunscreens are available in many formulations and delivery methods, and it can often take some experimenting to find the one that best suits your family’s needs. The most important consideration when selecting a sunscreen is choosing one with a high SPF rating. SPF stands for sun protection factor. This number indicates how long it would take UVB rays to redden your skin when using a particular product compared to when you are not using it. For example, if you were to use an SPF 50 product exactly as directed, it would take 50 times longer to burn than if you used nothing at all.
Sunscreens that state 'broad spectrum' on the label indicate that the product contains key ingredients that effectively protect against both UVB and UVA rays. Furthermore, any sunscreen containing titanium dioxide or zinc oxide, often referred to as a physical or mineral formula, is typically less likely to cause skin irritation for people with sensitive skin.
Cover Up
The right clothing can offer a fantastic barrier against the sun’s UV rays. Unlike sunscreen, its protection is consistent over time and doesn’t wear off through physical activity or swimming. The more skin you cover, including arms, legs, shoulders, and neck, the better protected you will be, especially when worn alongside a wide-brimmed hat and UV-blocking sunglasses.
However, not all clothing is created equal, and apparel made with UPF-approved fabrics offers the best protection. UPF stands for ultraviolet protection factor and can be found on clothing labels. This number indicates the fraction of UV rays that can penetrate the fabric; a higher number indicates better protection. Any clothing will leave some skin exposed, so you will need to apply high-SPF sunscreen as well.
Look Out for Windows
Although glass blocks UVB rays fairly well, it does not provide the same protection against UVA rays. This is true for the windows around your home as well as the windows in your car. While windscreens are treated to provide drivers with a respectable level of protection from UVA rays, side, back, and sunroof windows are typically not treated with the same level of protection.
If you intend to spend long periods of time travelling in your car, or frequently travel during peak sun hours, it is worthwhile taking the necessary steps to protect yourself and your family with hats, clothing, sunscreen, sunglasses, or window shades to limit UVA exposure. While it may feel excessive and unnecessary, the only effective way to protect yourself against potentially deadly skin cancers is a committed and proactive approach.
Shady Refuge
When spending time outside, it is important to think of shade as a refuge, especially during the peak sun hours from 11 am to 4 pm. This can mean walking on a shady side of a road, sitting under an umbrella or awning, moving onto a covered porch at a pool party or weekend BBQ or relaxing under a tree.
However, shade is not a foolproof shield, and UV rays can still reach you by reflecting off nearby objects or surfaces, or by passing through leaves and tree branches. For this reason, it is vital to ensure you apply sunscreen properly before leaving the house, and to reapply as recommended throughout the day.
Avoid Tanning Beds
Tanning beds of any kind should be avoided at all costs. Indoor tanning, even a single or two exposures, increases the risk of all skin cancers, including melanoma. In fact, using a tanning bed before the age of 35 can increase the chance of developing melanoma by a whopping 75%.
While some countries and states across the US have implemented crucial laws prohibiting minors from using tanning beds under a certain age, many places continue to have unrestricted access. If you are after a natural-looking tan year-round, opt for a vegan, non-toxic tanning mousse or lotion.
Protecting Children
In most cases, children are exposed to direct sunlight far more than adults. When taking steps to protect your children from harsh sunlight, it is crucial to consider key medical advice for children at every stage of development.
Infants under 6 months old should not be exposed to direct sunlight, and sunscreen should be avoided due to their sensitive skin. Instead, clothing should be used to cover vulnerable areas, such as the arms and legs, alongside stroller sun shades, sunglasses, and hats.
Starting at six months, children can begin wearing sunscreen specifically formulated for babies. However, it is best to consult with your children’s primary doctor to discuss your options and any warning signs you should be aware of. Unexpected sun exposure is common with young children, so it is crucial to establish a proactive protection plan to follow every day, regardless of your plans or the weather.
Early Detection
Practising strict, consistent sun protection from an early age is the strongest defence against developing skin cancer and other serious skin-related diseases later in life. No method or person is perfect, and studies reveal that one in five Americans alone will develop skin cancer by the age of 70. People living in Australia, New Zealand, Oceania, Europe, and North America are most at risk; however, cases across Africa and Asia continue to increase steadily.
The Skin Cancer Foundation strongly recommends that all adults conduct monthly skin self-exams and visit a dermatologist at least once a year, or more frequently should they notice suspicious changes in their skin or have higher risk factors.
ABOUT OUR CONTRIBUTOR:
Paige is a creative copywriter specialising in home décor and lifestyle content. With a keen eye for interior trends and a talent for storytelling, she crafts engaging, conversion-focused copy that brings brands to life. From styling tips and product descriptions to blog features and campaign messaging, Paige blends warmth, creativity, and strategy to connect with modern homeowners and design lovers alike.
