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Protect children from sunburn
Sunscreen: essential protection
Sunscreen alone is not enough to guarantee optimal protection, because it does not filter all UV rays.
Choose a cream with un protection index (IP) 30 minimum so that it is really effective, even more if your skin is very fair and reddens easily. Also called sun protection factor (SPF), this index is calculated in relation to the time required to catch a sunburn with or without product. With an SPF 30, it takes in theory thirty times longer to get a sunburn than without sun protection.
Choose formulas that you will enjoy using (spray, milk, cream, oil, etc.), because you will have to renew its application every two hours and after each swim, with particular emphasis on the nose, lower lip, ears, upper back, shoulders and chest, areas most exposed to UV.
No exhibition between 12 p.m. and 16 p.m.
The higher the UV index is, the higher the probability of getting sunburned. It quantifies the intensity of solar ultraviolet radiation and varies with latitude, altitude, date, time, level of the ozone layer and clouds. It is indicated on weather maps in July and August.
If you don’t have access, rely on your shadow on the ground. When she gets smaller than you, take cover. In fact, the higher the sun is in the sky, the more intense and dangerous the UV rays are (between 12 p.m. and 16 p.m.).
More vulnerable than adults, babies under one year old should never stay in direct sunlight because their skin and eyes are extremely fragile.
Beware of false friends
L’altitude. Sunburn is particularly common in the mountains. The altitude and the presence of snow greatly increase the amount of UV rays received by the skin. So one piece of advice: even if the air seems cooler to you, protect yourself!
The reverberation. Water and sand reflect UV rays. Even in the shade, during a boat trip for example or on the sand, under a parasol, you are exposed.
The clouds. Also beware of UV on an overcast day, as it does not feel hot and partly passes through clouds.
Clothing adapted to the season
Keeping your T-shirt on the beach is safer, but once wet it loses a lot of its protective effect. For a true total screen, wear clothing suitable for water sports that filters out UV rays. (Available in sports shops).
Also remember to protect your eyes and those of children, face and neck with a wide-brimmed hat, not to mention the essential wraparound and anti-UV sunglasses..