The school holidays are here and as we spend our days on the beach and the pool it’s imperative that we take care of our skin and keep ourselves protected from the harsh rays of the sun.
Living in the Southern Hemisphere means that we need to be careful all year round especially between 11am and 3pm when the sun is at its strongest. Children under the age of 6 months should be kep out of direct sunlight as their skin doesn’t contain enough melanin.
The aim for us this summer is to spend time in the shade between 11am and 3pm.
When we’re at the beach the boys are always in direct sunlight, I always ensure they are wearing their rash vests and that hats are packed in.
Using sunscreen safely is important, it’s not just about slapping it on and hoping for the best.
Here are some helpful tips:
Children should be using AT LEAST SPF30 sunscreen. Be sure that the product protects against both UVA and UVB rays
Sunscreen should ideally be applied 30 minutes before sun exposure, to all exposed parts of the body
Sunscreen needs to be reapplied immediately after coming out of the water, even if it is “water-resistant”
Reapply sunscreen at least every 2 hours, even when not playing in the water.
Make sure you use enough sunscreen and don’t apply too thinly as the amount of protection given is then reduced.
Check your sunscreen expiry date, most sunscreens have a 12 month limit on their ability to protect skin once opened.
We love the Heliocare Pediatrics range and how it protects the boys' skin. Here’s an overview of the products we received.
Children with sensitive and/or atopic skin can benefit greatly from Heliocare 360° Pediatrics Mineral SPF 50+. With its unique 100% mineral filters that provide broad-spectrum protection against UVA, UVB, visible light, and infrared radiation, it has extremely high photoimmunoprotective qualities (IR-A). The ultra-fluid mineral emulsion absorbs quickly and is simple to spread. Suitable for newborns older than 6 months and kids' faces and bodies.
Children and babies have skin that is 30% thinner than that of adults, have lower melanin levels, and have dry, dehydrated skin in the first few months of life. They are also particularly susceptible to sun exposure due to a weak skin barrier. Current recommendations call for a broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or greater for children 6 months and older. Ideally, it should also contain physical filters like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, which are less irritating to sensitive skin.
Regarding full-spectrum UV protection, Heliocare 360° is recognized as one of the industry's top producers. On skin that is prone to atopic dermatitis, our Pediatrics Atopic Lotion Spray SPF 50 has been specifically tested. All skin types can utilize the ultra-gentle solution because it can be applied to intolerant skin. The simple spray nozzle, in my opinion, enables better coverage in kids who can be difficult to keep still during application. beginning at three months of age.
For the delicate skin of infants and children, Heliocare 360 Pediatrics Atopic Lotion SPF 50 provides photo-immune protection. The lightweight fluid texture absorbs rapidly and offers complete broad spectrum protection against UVA and UVB, HEVL, and IR-A. It is very simple to apply.
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