You will have heard that "the skin has memory". And it is very true. The way we take care of our children in the first years of sun exposure will determine the health of their skin as adults. Protecting them from the sun in childhood reduces the risk of skin cancer in the future.
Applying sunscreen is a care that we should not overlook, especially in summer, when they spend many hours under the sun's rays.
It is believed that regular use of photoprotectors before 18 years of age may reduce the incidence of skin cancer up to 78 percent. Having a history of sunburn in childhood is a risk factor for the development of melanoma.
A melanoma is a disease in which malignant cells form in skin cells called melanocytes. While melanoma is uncommon, It is the most common skin cancer in children.
Our skin has a natural protection against UVA and UVB rays that prevents burns. Depending on the type of skin, the protection time varies in each person, although in general, it is approximately 15 minutes. After that time, the skin begins to redden.
To help this natural protection, there are sunscreens with photoprotection, which in the case of children must be high (more than 30 SPF), since their skin is especially sensitive. Some application tips: a good amount should be applied, half an hour before sun exposure and renew every two hours or after bathing.
In addition to the cream, we must protect them with caps, hats, glasses and clothing, as well as avoid exposure to the sun in the central hours of the day, between 12 and 16 hours.
The sun is health, nor do we have to see it as an enemy, but to expose ourselves with responsibility. How we protect them from the sun today will reduce the risk of future skin diseases.
