Don't Forget Your Sunscreen!

By Donna Stark

The days are getting longer, the temperatures are getting warmer, and your children are probably going to spending more time outdoors once the school year is over. And besides the extra peace in the home, you know what else that means? It means more red shoulders and sunburned faces on those you love the most, which is why it is important that you protect your children from excess sun exposure. 

Don't Underestimate the Power of the Sun

Even on those cloudy, overcast days, there is a chance of getting too much sun. Have you ever made the mistake of thinking the clouds would be enough to protect you, but when you came inside, you realized you were terribly wrong? It is worth remembering that the sun will always be more powerful than we think, so we need to take proactive steps before we leave the house this summer, especially with our children! Take a look at a few sun safety tips for your entire family.

• Limit your time - Limit the amount of time in the sun and choose those times of day when the sun is not at its hottest. Generally, it is recommended to avoid prolonged exposure between the hours of 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. But if you can't avoid doing that, take frequent breaks from the sun. Head indoors or find plenty of shade.
• Use the UV Index - The UV Index is a great tool to use that can help determine your expected risk of sun overexposure.  Typically, anything over a UV index of 3 requires sunscreen and anything over an 8 needs even more protection. The UV index is easy to use and can be found online.
• Establish a sunscreen habit - It's important for everyone to get in the habit of applying sunscreen, but even more so with young children. Teach your young ones the "hot spots" on their bodies, such as their ears, lips, nose, the tops of their feet, and the back of their neck.
• Reapply - You are going to be using a lot of sunscreen in the upcoming months, so you may as well stock up! It's just as important to reapply throughout the day as it is to put it on in the first place, so be sure to have it on hand at all times.

Enjoying the Summer

It certainly doesn't take a lot to enjoy the summer. After all, most activities offered during this time of year are loads of fun! But if you want to keep the fun going, you have to keep yourself and your loved ones safe. So go ahead and step outside! Just be sure to protect yourself first!

To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Cumming, Ga.