May is Sun Awareness Month, a good reminder that sunscreen isn’t just for beach days. If your kids are outside for recess, walking to school, splashing in the backyard or waiting at the bus stop, their skin is getting UV exposure, even on hazy days. To help separate fact from fiction, here are some sun safety myths parents should know about:

Myth #1: You only need sunscreen on hot days.

UV rays can be strong when it’s cool or cloudy, and they bounce off water, sand and even some playground surfaces.

“Kids get UV exposure during everyday outdoor activities, even when it’s cloudy, so sunscreen should be part of their daily routine,” says Dr. Katie Beleznay, a dermatologist and mom of two. “Using a broad-spectrum sunscreen, SPF 30 or higher, and reapplying at least every two hours and immediately after swimming is important to protect their skin during a day outdoors.”

Myth #2: A little dab of sunscreen is all you need.

Most people don’t use nearly enough sunscreen. The recommended amount is 30 millilitres, or the size of a golf ball, to cover your whole body. It’s important to rub it in well for full coverage. Don’t forget your ears, the back of your neck, tops of your feet and the part line of your hair – even your scalp can burn.

Myth #3: One application lasts all day.

Sunscreen wears off with time, especially if you’re active and sweating or you’ve been swimming. Start by applying sunscreen 15 minutes before you head outside and reapply at least every two hours. If you’ve been sweating or swimming, reapply every 80 minutes. When in doubt, refer to the instructions on your sunscreen bottle.

Sunscreen tips:

  • When you’re shopping, there are kid-friendly sunscreen options available, including lotions formulated to be gentle on skin, pediatrician tested, and designed to stay out of the eyes, such as Banana Boat’s Kids Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50+.
  • To help remind yourself to use it daily, keep the bottle in a spot you won’t miss.
  • Keep a small checklist on the door: hat, water bottle, sunscreen, snack.
  • If your child gets dressed in stages, apply sunscreen while they’re still in shorts and a T-shirt- less chasing, fewer missed areas.

Making sunscreen part of the daily routine can help families stay one step ahead of UV exposure.

– News Canada