As a parent, it is important to take the necessary precautions to protect your child’s skin from the sun. This is because sun damage to the skin can increase an individual’s risk of skin cancer in the future in a significant way. Sun damage is cumulative, and each year, sun exposure can become eventually harmful to the skin. Dr. Stanley Skopit of Dania, FL works with parents and children to educate them on how to protect the skin and reduce the risks of skin cancer. He also encourages patients to visit him at Dania Dermatology at least once a year for annual skin cancer screenings. When caught in the earlier stages, many cases of skin cancer can be effectively addressed with the help of a dermatological professional.
How to protect your child’s skin from the sun
It’s vital that you protect your child’s skin from harmful UV rays. Taking these steps now will significantly reduce a child’s risk of skin cancer. Here are some tips and recommendations from Dr. Stanley Skopit and his dermatological team:
- Make sure your child wears sunscreen whenever they’re outside. Choose a sunscreen that has SPF 30 or higher and is water-resistant.
- Apply sunscreen 20 minutes before going outside, and reapply every two hours or as directed.
- Encourage your child to wear a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses when they’re outdoors.
- Keep them in the shade as much as possible, especially between 10am and 4pm when UV rays are strongest.
- If your child gets a sunburn, apply cool compresses and give them ibuprofen to help relieve the pain.
Taking these precautions will help keep your child’s skin healthy and safe from the sun’s harmful rays.
How do I learn more about protecting my child (and myself) from skin cancer?
Skin cancer is a serious risk in patients who have had sunburns or significant sun exposure over time. If you are worried about protecting yourself and your family from harmful UV rays, it’s time to speak to our team about your options for prevention and screening. Call Dania Dermatology of Dania, FL at (954) 807-9433 to request a consultation visit with Dr. Stanley Skopit and his team. He is committed to educating patients on the importance of sun protection at his state-of-the-art facility located at 154 South Compass Way.