UPF 50

UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) is a rating system used to measure the effectiveness of clothing and fabric in blocking out harmful UV rays from the sun. UPF 50 is the highest rating, meaning it blocks out 98% of UV radiation. Clothing and fabrics with a UPF rating of 50+ are considered very effective in protecting skin from the sun's harmful rays.

UPF ratings are important to consider when choosing clothing for kids, especially for those who spend a lot of time outdoors. Opting for clothing with a high UPF rating can help reduce the risk of sunburns and skin damage, and provide extra protection for delicate skin.

SKINCARE FACTS

  • Sunburns can increase the risk of skin cancer, including melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer.

  • Kids' skin is more sensitive to the sun's harmful rays and is more prone to sunburns and skin damage, so it's important to take extra care to protect them.

  • UV rays can penetrate clouds, so don't be fooled by cloudy days. It's important to protect skin from the sun, even on cloudy days.

  • Sunburns can occur in as little as 15 minutes and repeat sunburns can cause skin damage over time, so it's important to protect kids from the sun, especially for those who spend a lot of time outdoors.

  • UV rays can damage skin cells, leading to mutations that can cause skin cancer. The risk of skin cancer increases with the amount of time spent in the sun without proper protection. Sunburns, especially those experienced during childhood, are particularly harmful and increase the risk of skin cancer later in life.

WAYS TO KEEP KIDS SUN SAFE

  • Wear Protective Clothing: Encourage kids to wear clothing that covers their skin, such as shirts with long sleeves and pants. Opt for fabrics that are light-weight and breathable for comfort.

  • Use Sunscreen: Choose a broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen with a minimum SPF of 30 and reapply every 2 hours or immediately after swimming or sweating.

  • Wear a Hat: Wearing a hat with a wide brim provides extra protection for the face, neck, and ears.

  • Seek Shade: Encourage kids to take breaks in the shade, especially during the hottest parts of the day (10am-4pm).

  • Wear Sunglasses: Teach kids the importance of protecting their eyes from harmful UV rays. Choose sunglasses that block out 99-100% of UV radiation.

SUN SAFETY FOR BABIES UNDER 6 MONTHS

  • Keep Them Out of Direct Sunlight: The best way to protect babies under 6 months old from the sun is to keep them in the shade, as their delicate skin is more sensitive to the sun's harmful rays.
  • Use a stroller canopy, shade tent, or umbrella to provide extra protection. If they must be in direct sunlight, dress them in protective clothing and keep their skin covered as much as possible.
  • It's important to note that infants under 6 months should not be exposed to the sun for extended periods of time and should not wear sunscreen, as their skin is too sensitive. If you must be outside for an extended period of time, try to schedule it for early morning or late afternoon when the sun is not as strong.