5 Things You Need to Know to Prevent Sunburns!

1. To prevent sunburns the CDC recommends putting on a broad spectrum sunscreen of SPF 15 or higher -- even if it is a cool or cloudy day -- along with wearing clothing that  covers and protects your skin.

2. When applying sunscreen you need a thick layer, then reapply regularly (about every two hours or after swimming, sweating or rubbing off sunscreen in some way). According to recent changes from the FDA, sunscreens need to pass a test to be labeled “water resistant” (water proof is no longer accepted under new regulations). The test will be to determine if the sunscreen still works fully for up to 40 minutes or up to 80 minutes, which means, while in water or sweating, water resistant sunscreen needs to be reapplied every 40 minutes or 80 minutes depending on the instructions on the container of sunscreen.

3. Remember sunscreens usually have an expiration date, and if they don’t they have a shelf life of about 3 years (or less if it has been exposed to high temperatures.)

4. Baby skin is very different from adult skin. Babies need to be protected in ways other than putting sunscreen on if they are under 6 months old (like simply keeping them out of the sun or keeping them covered when in the sun). The American Academy for Pediatrics recommends infants be dressed in lightweight long pants, long sleeved shirts and hats that protect the neck and face.

5. Don't trust kids to protect their own skin. Children do not have as much experience and knowledge about how their own skin reacts to sun exposure. When children are young pay careful attention to how their skin reacts and adjust SPF accordingly.

Sun Wise Kids is a great website to help children learn about sun safety. On this website they will learn that SPF 30 or higher is their best option to protect their fragile skin. Mayo Clinic recommends using a combination of shade, clothing and sunscreen to avoid the harmful rays of the sun. Most sources agree it is important to remember wearing sunscreen is not a reason to stay in the sun longer.