In order to safeguard children and infants from the sun’s harming effects, parents are recommended to follow SunSmart care.
SunSmart, a programme of the HSE, attempts to inform parents about the risks of UV exposure, especially for young children. If parents don’t shield their children from the sun this weekend, they will be at a significant risk of becoming sunburned.
With over 13,000 new cases identified each year, skin cancer is the most prevalent disease in Ireland.
According to Professor Anne Marie Tobin, clinical lead for dermatology at the HSE, children’s exposed skin should be protected with the maximum level of sun protection.
Ms. Tolan also provided tips on how to dress appropriately to protect oneself from the sun.
“Children really, really need a factor 50 on the exposed sides like the face and the back of the hands, and then clothing. Either you can buy those UV protected suits, and then you are only trying to put sunblock on the hands and the hands, toe forearms and the lower legs.
“Running after children to put on sunblock is not their favourite activity,
“A t-shirt that doesn’t allow the light through. So if you hold it up to the sun, and you can see the light through it, it’s too light. So something like cotton will protect you, but linin won’t.