Next Gen Sun Protection

Mostparents would consider traditional liquid sunscreen or sunblock from a bottle to be the best way to help protect children from the sun’s harmful rays. After all, it has been used successfully for decades, is inexpensive, and is available at most retail stores. However, the past few summers have brought about some exciting new products that are not only fun to use but allow for greater flexibility in how we keep kids safe.

The sunscreens and sunblocks we are most familiar with now have a new attitude! Sunscreens come in aerosol spray cans for even coverage and quick application. They also work great for areas that were once impossible to reach, like your back. Other varieties offer unique features, such as color-changing bottles that alert parents when it is time to reapply. There is also a sunblock also goes on like a cream and dries into a powder, keeping sand and dirt from sticking to the skin.

We are familiar with using a hat or an umbrella to cover precious little ones from the powerful sun, but did you ever consider a custom swimsuit or romper for your child? Specialty apparel made from cotton and other natural blends can offer 50+ UV protection while keeping kids stylish! Hats, t-shirts, shorts, swimsuits, and even water shoes contain breathable variations of this new material designed to be a long-term tool against the risk of sunburn.

UV alert stickers are an option for detecting how long your child has been out in the sun and preventing overexposure. Made by a few manufacturers, these decals for the skin come in fun designs and change color the longer the wearer is in direct sunlight. While they do nothing to minimize sun exposure, they are a great tool combined with a sun protection product.

Umbrellas and sunshades are also nice for those kids that just aren’t going anywhere. Babies and toddlers staying in one spot outdoors can relax under an umbrella or other canopy to keep cool and away from direct sunlight. (NOTE: Please ensure the product is designed for sun protection. A regular umbrella or blanket may not offer a defense.) Tents and portable gazebos made from similar materials come in sizes large enough for the whole family!

Sunglasses are a fashion staple for adults but are often overlooked for children. However, child-sized sunglasses are a growing market and can be adorable and vital to keeping little eyes from harm. Choose a frame that fits your child’s face, and be sure they can stay put with either straps or a wrap-around design. Avoid cheap novelty sunglasses from discount stores, as they are usually not intended for sun safety.

Strolling babies need shelter too, and there are many different kinds of stroller and car seat canopies and covers that keep babies cool and away from the hot sun. Many allow for an unobstructed view of the outside; some even do double-duty as a bug guard to keep pesky mosquitoes at bay!

Remembering sun safety is a year-round issue will also help keep kids safe. With all the available products, parents and caregivers should have no problem finding a sun solution that works for them. Speaking with a pediatrician or family doctor can give some additional insight on how families can work together to prevent sun damage in children. Learning sun safety early is the best way to ensure children grow up healthy and happy!

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