Sun safety for babies and children by La Roche-Posay
We live on an island blessed with sunny days almost all year round... bountiful sunlight has a very positive effect on our moods however the long-term effects caused on our skin are not as enticing!
The sun does not only emit heat and light, it also emits UV rays which can be very harmful to us. The UV rays are comprised of UVA, UVB and UVC. UVC rays are absorbed by the ozone layer and do not reach the earth. However, both UVA and UVB penetrate the atmosphere and play a major role in causing conditions such as sunburn, premature skin ageing, and skin cancers.
UVA rays (A for Ageing) are present all year round. They cause ageing, hyperpigmentation, and photo allergies. For this reason, it is very important to apply sun protection all year round as they pass through glass and all materials. UVB (B for Burns) are more intense in summer months from 10am to 4pm and they are blocked by glass. UVB rays are the main cause of redness and sunburn.
The UV index, which is discussed during the Weather report, tells us daily what the UV levels are and when sun protection measures are required. You need to be protected as soon as the UV index reaches 3, which in Malta means practically all year round.
How can we protect babies and children from the sun?
International guidelines suggest that babies under six months of age should be kept out of direct sunlight. Their skin would not have stabilized yet, have very sensitive skin and are at a higher risk of getting sunburnt. The baby should stay in the shade and dressed in long-sleeved lightweight clothing and wear a wide-brimmed hat to protect their face and neck. While sunscreen is not recommended for babies under 6 months under international guidelines, the combination of shade and protective clothing is key to keeping them safe.
Babies are over 6 months should still be kept out of direct sunlight, especially in places with a high UV index such as Malta. Anthelios Baby Lotion SPF50+ is an exceptionally high sun protection formulated for the most sensitive of baby’s skin. It’s important to first start with a small test patch and see how your baby’s skin reacts before applying it to the whole body. It’s also important to keep in mind that it's essential to keep babies under 3 years old covered in lightweight clothing that protects their arms & legs, while also sporting a hat and sunglasses.
The Anthelios UVMune Dermo-paediatric range offers protection for children older than 3 years of age. They should be covered up, stay in the shade whenever possible and limit sun exposure during the peak intensity hours—between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. The sun's damaging UV rays can bounce back from sand, water, or concrete, so be extra careful around these reflective surfaces. Cotton clothing is both cool and protective, making it ideal for kids. Also, consider a wide-brimmed hat to shade the cheeks, chin, ears, and back of the neck. Sunglasses with ultraviolet (UV) protection are a good idea for protecting your child's eyes.
What should you look for when buying sun protection?
When shopping for sun protection, it is important to opt for a broad-spectrum sunscreen which provides high protection against UVB (SPF 50) and UVA (Look for the UVA in a full circle to ensure high protection). The Anthelios UVMune 400 Dermo-Paediatric Range is the first sun protection range with the filter Mexoryl 400 that protects from the most insidious rays that penetrate up to 400nm deep in the skin. This is the strongest protection on the market.
Other properties to look out for include anti-eye stinging, water, sweat and sand-resistant, and those that do not leave a white cast.
Choose the texture that is best suited to your skin type especially since sun protection on the face should be used all year round.
The Anthelios range by La Roche-Posay offers a vast range of sunscreens that suit everyone’s needs and they are suitable for all.
How much sunscreen should be applied?
In general, when it comes to how much sunscreen should apply to children, we have to follow the ‘9 teaspoon rule’:
- 1 teaspoon to Face & Neck
- 1 teaspoon to the Back
- 1 teaspoon for each Arm
- 1 Teaspoon for the Torso
- 2 Teaspoons for each Leg
Options of sunscreens offered by La Roche Posay can be found from:
https://shop.prohealth.com.mt/collections/sun-protection
Free same or next day delivery is offered. La Roche-Posay products can also be found in Pharmacies around Malta and Gozo.
This article has been written by Karen Curmi - pharmacist and L’Oreal Dermatological Beauty Medical Relations Manager
