While many of us are guilty of not being sun smart, we all know just how important it is to protect ourselves and our kids from harmful UV rays.
However, while many of us know to reach for the sun cream as soon as the temperatures start to rise, there are a few other things you need to do in order to stay safe.
1. Short shadow - seek shade
It is important you seek shade when the sun is at its highest, between 11am and 3pm. However, this isn’t a fits all rule and you should instead watch your shadow - if it's short you should head inside.
2. Umbrellas don’t offer full protection
While you may feel covered up under a beach umbrella or even a canopy, you should remember that, unless they have UV protection, they don’t provide 100% shade and you should still apply sun cream to your little one and yourself.
3. Liberally apply sun cream every two hours
No matter how high a factor your sunscreen is you should still reapply every two hours, more frequently if swimming or sweating. And remember, just because an SPF 50 offers high protection doesn’t mean it stays on the skin longer – reapply, reapply, reapply.
4. Wear a hat
Not only does a hat keep your head cooler, it also protects eyes and ears from the dangerous rays – perfect if little kids are reluctant to wear sunglasses.
5. Watch your clothing
Yes, wearing clothes offers some protection from UV rays, but some offer more than others. Stretched, elasticised tops don’t provide as much protection as a tightly woven linen or cotton top would. Opt for dark shades that will absorb the UV and layer up. If possible, invest in a couple of UV protected clothing, especially for young children.
