There are simple things that you can do to protect your skin:
- Limit your sun exposure (especially between 11am and 3 pm)
- While you are outdoors, be in the shade as much as possible.
- Wear a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses and clothing that covers as much of skin as possible.
- Apply broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher), liberally and frequently, to exposed skin. Don’t forget to use a minimum SPF 30 lip balm.
What you need to know for children under the age of 1 year:
- Their skin is thinner and more sensitive than adult skin, so they burn more easily. Sunburn is serious and can cause skin damage, dehydration and fever.
- Keep babies out of direct sunlight. Limit sun exposure between 11am and 3pm.
- Babies should wear wide brimmed hats and loose-fitting clothing that covers arms and legs.
- For babies over 6 months old, sunscreen SPF 30 and higher can be applied to exposed skin (avoid mouth and eye area). Mineral sunscreens are a great option for babies.
- For babies under 6 months old, mineral sunscreen can be applied if necessary but it is best to avoid the sun and keep them in the shade. Babies have sensitive skin and they can not regulate their body temperature well, which puts them at risk of overheating.
*A severe sunburn is an emergency and immediate medical attention is required
Some over-the-counter or prescription drugs can cause skin to become very sensitive to the sun. This can lead to sunburn, blisters, rashes or swelling. Make sure to speak to your pharmacist to determine if your medications can cause this.