Sun Protection
Skin
Great! The sun has arrived and we're all desperate to get out there...fresh air, warmth and Vitamin D abounds, however...
Our summers are getting hotter and the sun's rays stronger - but kids' skin is as delicate as ever. We're not scare mongering - these are facts...
- Young skins are vulnerable and more easily damaged than ours.
- There are more skin cancer deaths in the UK than in Australia.
- Researchers now believe that sunburn in childhood can double the risk of skin cancer in the future click here to find out more
Remember, it's easy to protect your kids while they enjoy themselves - take a look at these
This is a brilliant little gadget, small and easy to carry. It will tell you as soon as there is a problem by clearly highlighting the areas of skin which have reached maximum exposure. The detector has been clinically tested by the University of Bari - it works! For complete peace of mind, don't leave home without this 'magic eye'
This one provides a SPF of 50+. Remember to apply any sun cream at least 15 minutes before you hit the beach, it takes a while to be absorbed and become effective. Also you won't have to pin the kids down to apply cream when they are bursting to get into that sand!
Clothing
We have lots of great clothes which will help protect young skin from the sun (many of which are suitable for swimming). Your kids can be safe and look like surf dudes...
Eyes
Warning! Kids' sunglasses - you can buy a pair in a chain store or beach shop for £2.99 - but they won't do the job of protecting your child's eyes from UV rays.
In fact, if they have no protection index, they are positively dangerous. The tinted lenses cause the pupils to dilate which allows even more of the UV rays to enter the eye.
Young eyes need proper protection - long term exposure to the sun can lead to cataracts and skin cancer around the eyelids. Children are at special risk from UV rays, the younger they are, the more fragile their eyes.
Sand, snow and water reflect the UV rays and increase their effect. If you intend spending time by the pool, at the beach or on the water this summer, get the kids some decent glasses.
We stock several good brands, including Julbo and Banz, which offer 100% UV protection. They're also strong, stay on comfortably and look cool. (Banz have glasses to fit newborns who are the most vulnerable of all).
Stay safe and enjoy good times in the sun!
