Image by Beate from Pixabay

Fun in the Sun

Hey there, Creekside Families! With summer on our minds, tapping on our windows, and inviting us out to play, it’s a good time to talk about our invisible but oh-so-important superhero costume – sunscreen! But here’s the twist in our summer plot: not all sunscreens are spun from the same spandex. That’s right; we’re talking about SPF – or as we like to call it at Creekside, ‘Sun Protection Factor.’

Let’s embark on a little SPF spelunking adventure to discover the treasures of protection it holds for our little sun chasers. Rest assured, this information is backed by scientific research and expert advice, so you can feel confident in your sun protection choices.

SPF: What’s in the Number?

Imagine SPF as a magical shield. The higher the number on this shield, the more sunbeams it bounces away from our precious little ones. But is a higher number always mightier in the battle against UV rays? Let’s see:

SPF 15: This is like the trusty sidekick of sunscreens. It blocks about 93% of UVB rays. It’s a good option for quick trips or a playdate on a lightly cloudy day.

SPF 30: Here’s the superhero of everyday sun protection! Blocking about 97% of UVB rays, it’s an excellent choice for everyday adventures, from sandbox escapades to high-sea backyard battles.

SPF 50 and Beyond: Entering the realm of ultra shields, SPF 50 blocks about 98% of rays. Numbers higher than 50 add a bit more protection, ideal for those extra-bright days or our little pals with more sensitive skin.

In fact, the Banana Boat website offers a wonderful chart for determining what SPF you need and how long you can expect it to protect your skin:

The two most essential acronyms for you to remember are:

UVA (Ageing)

and

UVB (Burning).

Most sunscreens shield us from UVB, but picking a “broad spectrum” potion is crucial to keep both villains away from our skin’s superhero layer.

The Magic Formula: Lotion, Spray, or Stick?

There are lots of different ways to apply sunscreen today, and your child will likely have a preference that you can match the product to.

Lotions are fabulous for a head-to-toe protective layer. They are like a lotion-love spell, ensuring no spot goes uncovered.

Sprays are the swift sorcerers of sunscreen, casting a protective mist with quick spells (sprays!). Just make sure to use them in a well-ventilated area away from those curious little noses and mouths.

Sticks are the precise wizards, perfect for drawing magical circles around small areas like cheeks, noses, and ears – the favorite snack of the sun as we engage in sunny activities.

Apply Early & Generously

Cloak your little ones in their SPF armor for approximately 30 minutes before venturing into the enchanted forests (or backyards). Remember to reapply every two hours or after swimming or sweating, and before you go, watch for any skin irritations or reactions!

Sensitive Skin Sorcery

For the tender skin of our little ones, look for mineral-based sunscreens with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. They’re like gentle guards that stand firmly against the sun.

Befriend the Shade and Hydration

Be sure to combine the power of sunscreen with its natural allies — cooling shade and nourishing water (both inside the body and out). They are mystical potions helping us keep the play safer and happier.

So, there we have it, brave Creekside guardians of fun and wellness! With our SPF knowledge, let’s ensure our little sun sprites enjoy every sunny tale and adventure this summer, armored with the proper protection. Share your sun-safe moments or tips below – because every nugget of wisdom makes our Creekside family glow brighter. Here’s to a summer filled with laughter, play, and oh-so-wise sunscreen choices! If you’d like to discuss a place at Creekside Kids for your kids, we invite you to click this embedded link to schedule an appointment. Let’s get to know each other! Like us on Facebook to follow our stories for news and updates. We’re located at 1201 W Cheyenne Road, Colorado Springs, CO 80906, and we can be reached at (719) 635-9111. Our new hours of operation are 6:45 a.m. until 5:45 p.m., Monday through Friday.

This article written with material from “Skin care on a budget – Best Living Guide.”