Childhood skin cancer rates are rising, even though sunscreen use is more prevalent than it used to be. While SPF is effective, kids forget to reapply and they tend to sweat or swim their sunscreen off. Clothing coverage is a more effective sun protection method for outdoorsy kids.
A day at the beach usually involves a lot of sunscreen, but once the kids go in the water or play in the sand, a lot of the SPF protection can rub off. Dr. Sansy Leachman of the Huntsman Institute in Salt Lake City says that parents are the main advocates for childhood skin protection, and should check their kids for changes.
Parents need to be aware of the risk of childhood skin cancer, and share that awareness with their kids. They should teach their kids to maintain proper sun protection and practice the same methods on themselves. “Just that awareness is the most powerful thing a parent can give their child,” Dr. Leachman said. “Just that modeling, just doing that is one of the best things you can do for your child, so they realize that this is an important thing and they should be paying attention to that.”
A decade ago, doctors say they never saw skin cancer in children. Now, there are a few cases a year. Contributing factors may include the increased popularity of tanning as a beauty habit, and the stigma of wearing a sun shirt when other kids are in swimsuits. Dr. Leachman recommends long sleeves, pants, sunglasses, and hats in the sun, and sunscreen on all exposed areas.
How do you get your child to follow these sun rules?
Try pointing out leathery, wrinkled skin on the beach and telling your child how to protect themselves from damage from the sun. Emphasize the beauty of natural skin and discourage tanning. Tell them about the risk of skin cancer and how it is a serious disease caused by sun exposure.
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