The effect of the sun on children

Although the sun is the source of life on earth, unfortunately it also has harmful effects. It is important to protect ourselves and our children.
Why is it more important to protect children from the sun?
The most important known cause of skin cancer is sunburns due to sun exposure in infancy and childhood. If a child has had a 2nd degree sunburn even once, the risk of developing skin cancer at a later age is 2 times higher than other people. This risk increases exponentially with each separate burn.

How should we protect our children from the sun?

First of all, it is important not to be exposed to direct sunlight between 11:00 and 15:00 on summer days when the sun’s rays are steep. We do not recommend the use of sunscreen in infants younger than 6 months, as sunscreen can cause damage.
It is necessary to be protected by physical methods such as UV-protected clothes, hats, glasses, awnings. Physical (mineral) filtered sunscreens can be used in children older than 6 months and younger than 2 years. However, it should not be forgotten that sunscreen does not protect 100% and its effect is temporary. Even if there is no water contact, it is useful to renew it every 2 hours. If you have been in the sea or pool or showered, it should be renewed without waiting for 2 hours.

First of all, it is important not to be exposed to direct sunlight between 11:00 and 15:00 on summer days when the sun’s rays are steep.
We do not recommend the use of sunscreen in infants younger than 6 months, as sunscreen can cause damage.
It is necessary to be protected by physical methods such as UV-protected clothes, hats, glasses, awnings. Physical (mineral) filtered sunscreens can be used in children older than 6 months and younger than 2 years.
However, it should not be forgotten that sunscreen does not protect 100% and its effect is temporary. Even if there is no water contact, it is useful to renew it every 2 hours. If you have been in the sea or pool or showered, it should be renewed without waiting for 2 hours.

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Content is for informational purposes. Always consult your physician for diagnosis and treatment.
Best regards,
Dr. Gizem Güngör Takeş