Planning summer fun? Stay safe in the sun!

As Conejo Valley welcomes in the summer season, the temperatures are starting to skyrocket and the sunshine is making its way out. The constant sunshine offers the perfect opportunity to hit the beach, get involved with your local community, and enjoy the warmer weather!

Before you head out during the summer season, every parent should note the importance of sun safety. This means keeping your child hydrated, staying in the shade, and, of course, applying sunscreen regularly.

Parents know that applying safe and effective sunscreen is key in protecting kids from sun damage. However, few parents know that some products and lotions may actually do more harm than good.

Here’s what to avoid:

  • Spray sunscreens – They can be inhaled and don’t cover the skin completely.
  • SPF values above 50+ – Here is where companies trick you. They make you believe that they’ll prevent sun damage, more so than SPF 30 or 40. In actuality, useful SPF protection tops out at 30 to 50.
  • Oxybenzone – This common ingredient is known for disrupting the hormone system. Ditch the lotion if this ingredient is listed.
  • Retinyl palmitate – Another ingredient to avoid! It may actually trigger skin damage on sun-exposed skin.

Remember that it only takes a few blistering sunburns during childhood to double a person’s lifetime chance of developing melanoma, the most serious form of skin cancer. The best defense against getting too much harmful UV radiation is through wearing protective clothing and staying in the shade. Here are few sun safety tips to implement this summer:

  • Cover up. Wide-brimmed hats and long pants and tops are always the way to go!
  • Wear sunglasses. A good pair will help to shield the eyes from the UV radiation that causes cataracts.
  • Stay in the shade. Whenever kids are outdoors, keep them in the shade as must as possible!
  • Schedule time outdoors. Go outdoors in the early morning and late afternoon, when the sun is lower.

Healthy and safe sun habits are thoroughly reinforced at Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Conejo Valley. Our organization and staff members understand the importance of maintaining a balanced diet and healthy lifestyle for top cognitive function and development! Call us today to learn more about our programs for your kids!