Thursday, March 24, 2011

Your Kids & Sun Exposure

Did you know that just a few serious sunburns could greatly increse your children's risk of developing skin cancer when they're older?

Kids love playing outdoors, but the extra sun exposure is harmful to their skin. It's important that children cover up, wear a hat and sunglasses, and apply sunscreen, sunscreen, sunscreen!

Be sure to put sunscreen on ears, noses, lips and the tops of feet, and take sunscreen with you to reapply throughout the day, especially after swimming or exercise.

It only takes 15 minutes for unprotected skin to be damaged by sun exposure. Pink sunburn and tan skin both indicate sun damage to your skin.

Infants are even more affected by the sun and should avoid sun exposure at all costs.

If your teen is going to the tanning bed, talk to them! The AAD, the World Health Organization and others fully support legislation that prohibits minors from accessing tanning salons or other artificial tanning devices.

The best thing you can do for your children is educate them about the dangers of sun exposure! Sun protection practices wane around the age of 9 or 10, so talk with your kids about the importance of protecting their skin.

For questions or to schedule an appointment to discuss sun exposure, call (864) 242-5872.

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