Sun protection under the Mediterranean sun |
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 Glorious but dangerous
Finally summer - the beach holiday is perfect! Hurry, get the kids in their swim costumes, but wait! As nice as it is, the Mediterranean sun is hiding a few hazards for your little ones. Long term negative effects of sun rays during childhood include skin cancer and cataracts. It is especially important to ensure sufficient sun protection for children’s delicate skin. Young children cannot produce the necessary pigmentation quickly enough to protect from the rays from above. However nothing should stand in your way of enjoying your Italian holiday if you follow a few simple sun rules.
Sunscreen, sunscreen, sunscreen
Even if the kids squirm and protest: always apply sunscreen! Apply at least 30 minutes before exposure (already before breakfast), with a cream with at least SPF 25. Keep in mind on overcast days as well that 80 percent of the UV rays still make it through the clouds. Child- friendly sun creams are available that successfully block UV-A and UV-B rays. Apply sunscreen repeatedly as the protection factor lessens through sweat and wear. Reapply especially after swimming, even with waterproof cream.
Siesta
Do as the locals do with their children: avoid the Mediterranean sun between 11:00 and 15:00. Enjoy a leisurely siesta in the shade or in your hotel. You and your kids can relax, play and romp on the beach again in the afternoon.
Sun protection clothing
Remember sun protection clothing: long, light-weight cotton for the beach, a sun hat that covers the neck area. Choose fabric that is thickly woven and dark for better protection against the UV rays. Specially manufactured sun protection clothing guarantees safe splashing even when wet. A wet cotton tee shirt offers no protection against the rays.
A cap with a visor or sunglasses with real UV filter protect the eyes from sun damage. It is a good idea to convince your young ones to wear sunglasses or a cap. “You look really great – cool – pretty” to a younger child often helps. It also helps to buy caps in a favourite colour or with Thomas the Tank or Disney Princess themes…
To sum it up: have fun playing in the sun!!!
crescere un bambino 
salute 
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