Over exposure to the sun can lead to sunburn today and increase your risk of skin cancer later in life. Each blistering sunburn doubles the risk of developing malignant melanoma, which is the most serious type of skin care.

The best way to prevent skin cancer is to prevent sunburn. Children are particularly susceptible to the suns damaging ultra violate rays.

• Keep babies less than 6 months old out of the sun.

• Encourage hats and sunglasses.

• Use a sunscreen with a sun protection factor of at least 15.

• Apply a sunscreen 30 minutes prior to going out.

• Schedule outdoor activities before 10 A.M. and after 2 P.M.

• Be aware that sun reflected off snow, sand, and water causes damage too.

• Encourage children to play in the shade or under canopies or umbrella.

Set a good example.  In the event your child does get sun burned, treat the burned area with cool water compresses until the pain subsides. Tylenol can also give additional relief of pain. Offer extra water to drink. Call our office if your child becomes unable to look at light because of eye pain, or has unexplained fevers over 102 degrees or the burns become moist or oozing.