Britons are actively choosing not to use sun cream, increasing the risk of developing the UK’s deadliest skin cancer, melanoma. However, for children it is vital that the right precautions are taken before enjoying a day of sunshine.
Children’s skin is particularly sensitive to UV damage, and sunburns in early life can dramatically increase the risk of skin cancer later on.
While this new AI tool works to analyse images of moles or skin lesions and determine whether they are cancerous before referring patients to a dermatologist, experts stress that building sun-safe habits early within families sets children up for a healthier future.
Melanoma Focus’ most recent poll of 2,000 UK adults found that nearly 1 in 10 said they never wear sun cream, a worrying trend, especially as children often replicate learnt behaviours. A further 19% said they “rarely” wear sun cream between May and September, despite rising UV levels.
Dr. Conal Perrett, a leading London dermatologist at The Devonshire Clinic, shares essential tips to keep children’s skin safe this summer:
Be Cautious on Cloudy Days
UV rays can penetrate clouds, so don’t let overcast skies fool you as up to 80% of UV rays can still reach your skin.
Sun protection is necessary even on cloudy, cooler, or windy days, especially during the spring and summer months when UV levels are typically higher.
Avoid Sun During Peak Hours
UV rays are strongest between 11 am and 3 pm, so try to keep little ones in the shade or indoors during these hours when possible.
If they do need to be outside, take extra precautions such as wearing protective clothing, staying in shaded areas, and using a high SPF sunscreen, especially during summer, when sports days, park visits and beach trips become common.
Reducing exposure during peak hours can significantly lower the risk of sunburn and long-term skin damage to children.
Check the UV Index
Before heading outside, check the daily UV index, which is usually available through weather apps or websites.
A UV index reading of 3 or above means you should take sun safety precautions as being UV-aware helps you plan and protect children’s skin accordingly.
Wear Broad-Spectrum Sunscreen Daily
Using sunscreen every day is one of the most effective ways to protect your child’s skin from harmful UV rays. Always choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher to guard against both UVA and UVB rays.
Apply it generously at least 30 minutes before allowing outdoor play or before school and remember to reapply at least every two hours, especially after swimming or sweating. Pay attention to commonly missed areas like the ears, neck, scalp, tops of the feet, and the backs of the hands.
Protective Clothing
Clothing can be a powerful barrier against the sun’s rays. Dressing your children in long-sleeved shirts, trousers or long skirts, wide-brimmed hats, and UV-blocking sunglasses provides additional protection. You can also look for clothing specifically labelled with a UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) rating, which indicates how much UV radiation the fabric blocks.
- Teach Sun Safety Early
Just like brushing teeth or wearing a seatbelt, sun safety should be a normal part of daily family life.
Encourage kids to apply their sunscreen, wear hats and sunglasses, and understand why it’s important. Making it routine helps protect their skin now and for the future.
Dr. Perrett, from The Devonshire Clinic, commented:
“Melanoma is the deadliest form of skin cancer, responsible for over 2,000 deaths a year in the UK. Early diagnosis and treatment are important to prevent it from spreading to other organs.
“By embracing this technology within the health sector, waiting times could be massively reduced which means that patients who have been diagnosed with a type of skin cancer will be able to get the treatments they need at a much faster rate.
“However, it is essential parents understand that skin cancer is preventable by being skin conscious all year round. With the skin being the largest organ of the body, sun exposure can cause thinning over time meaning your child may become more vulnerable to future skin conditions, including skin cancer.”