Dear Caring Adults,

Contrary to popular belief, we need protection from the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays too!

Personally, I take a more traditional/holistic approach to protecting my skin from the sun by way of my diet and how long I decide to stay outdoors. There are safe sunscreens that can be useda well and we should be mindful of this for our Lovely Learners. Prevention and maintenance is far better than cure and proper summer skin care should begin early in life for better effect.

While people with darker skin have some inherent protection against harmful UV radiation due to the higher levels of melanin in our skin, we are not immune to the damaging effects of the sun. Here are some reasons why  we should introduce the use of sunscreen to our Lovely Learners too:

1. Protection from harmful UV rays

Sunscreen helps shield children’s delicate skin from the damaging effects of (UV) rays emitted by the sun. Prolonged exposure to UV radiation can lead to sunburn, premature skin aging, and an increased risk of skin cancer later in life. Our Lovely Learners’ skin is particularly sensitive and prone to damage, so using sunscreen is crucial for protecting it from harmful UV rays.

2. Reduced risk of sunburn

Sunburn can be painful and uncomfortable for children. Sunscreen with adequate SPF (Sun Protection Factor) helps prevent sunburn by blocking or absorbing UVB rays, the type of radiation responsible for sunburn.

3. Lower risk of long-term skin damage

Sunscreen not only prevents immediate sunburn but also reduces the cumulative damage caused by UV exposure over time. Consistent use of sunscreen in childhood can help decrease the risk of developing skin issues, such as skin discoloration, wrinkles, and skin cancer later in life.

4. Safe outdoor play

Most Lovely Learners love to play outdoors, especially during sunny days. Applying sunscreen allows them to enjoy outdoor activities without worrying about harmful sun damage to their skin.

5. Prevention of other skin problems

Sunscreen can also protect children from other skin problems, such as rashes, irritation, and sensitivity, which can be aggravated by sun exposure.

6. Formative habits for a lifetime

Encouraging our Lovely Learners to use sunscreen from a young age helps to instill good sun protection habits that can last into adulthood. Learning to protect their skin early on sets the foundation for a lifetime of sun-safe practices.

When selecting sunscreen for our Lovely  Learners, it’s essential to choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a high SPF (typically SPF 30 or higher) that provides protection against both UVA and UVB rays. Additionally, Caring Adults should apply sunscreen generously and reapply it every two hours, especially when children are swimming or sweating. Alongside sunscreen, it’s also wise to dress children in protective clothing, use hats and sunglasses, and limit sun exposure during peak UV hours (usually between 10 am and 4 pm).

One of my favourite choices if sunscreen for our Lovely Learners is Black Girl Sunscreen for kids. It goes on without a film, smells great and is long lasting. It comes in either a spray or lotion form and is also quite affordable. The chemistry of this particular sunscreen is made specifically for melanated skin and is a black owned business as well,

https://www.blackgirlsunscreen.com/about-bgs-kids/

Continue to enjoy the summer and keep your melanated skin healthy as you have fun in the sun!

Until next time…

Your faaaavourite Caring Adult,

~Ms. Love