Ban The Burns
By Community Pharmacy, Salt Lake City LIVING WELL Magazine
According to a new study, risky sun exposure increases as children age. I imagine that might be news for those of you with children or grandchildren of your own, is it? Looking at the sun behaviors in fifth graders in 2004 and again three years later, researchers found this: Most of the children had had at least one sunburn by age 11. Although half the children used sunscreen at age 11, only a quarter of the 14-year-olds did.
Maybe you’re thinking, what’s the bid deal, in the whole scheme of things? Or, how can I ever get my child or grandchild to use sunscreen, especially when she and her friends are competing for the “golden glow” award?
Well, I’m here to tell you it’s worth a try. Here’s why: signs of skin damage from ultraviolet (UV) rays. Repeated sunburns increase your risk for skin cancer. That risk is even higher in people with many moles and freckles, very fair skin and hair or a family history of skin cancer. One type of skin cancer (melanoma) is one the rise. Although once a cancer of older people, cases are now also showing up in young adults and teens. This could be due to their increased use of tanning beds and sun lamps.
Too much UV exposure can also cause other types of cancer and a weakened immune system. It can also lead to wrinkles, age spots and leathery skin, making you age before your time. Perhaps this will get the attention of those “invulnerable” teens!
Of course, it’s not realistic – or right – to ask your children and grandchildren to stay out of the sun altogether. So do your best to encourage respect for the sun not sun worship. Buy a broad-spectrum sunscreen, blocking both UVA and UVB rays, with at least SPF 15. Encourage your children and grandchildren to:
- Wear sunscreen or a moisturizer with at least SPF 15 every day
- Apply the sunscreen thickly
- Reapply every couple of hours after swimming or sweating
- Stay out of the sun as much as possible between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
- Wear a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses with 100% UV protection
- Remember that both water and snow reflect UV radiation and can increase the risk of burns
- Avoid tanning pills that claim to speed up tanning
Many have been told the importance of vitamin D and the positive affects it has on our health and body. However, plenty of UV rays seep through sunscreen to give your body enough vitamin D. So that’s not a reason to avoid sun protection.
If your children or grandchildren still insist on getting a tan, suggest trying a self-tanner, which contains dihydroxyacetone (DHA). Available in sprays, lotions, moisturizers, and towelettes, these products gradually stain dead cells in the skin’s outer layer. The effect can last up to a week.
You can find many sun-protection products in our store. Many Blue Lizard products can be found in our store. Blue Lizard products are some of the most common sunscreens recommended by dermatologists. If you can’t find what you’re looking for don’t hesitate to ask for help. Community Pharmacy has a staff always waiting to help you with what you need.
Don’t forget to ask for our cold bottled water while waiting for your prescriptions to be filled!
Nothing herein constitutes medical advice, diagnosis or treatment, or substitute for professional advice. You should always seek the advice of a physician or other medical professionals if you have questions or concerns about medical conditions.
