In East Tennessee, summer is meant for outdoor adventures. And for all the parents out there, it involves a whole new set of skin safety precautions. Your Knoxville Dermatology team is here to provide sun safety tips for children of all ages. In this entry, we will focus on tips for toddlers.

Toddlers

Babies’ skin may be more sensitive but toddlers’ energy levels require more thought and effort in keeping them safe in the sun. It’s important to begin teaching them about sun safety at an early age so they can develop good habits as they grow.

Yes, they are going to want to play outside and run around, but be mindful of their exposure between 10 AM and 4 PM. Those are the sun’s most powerful hours. If possible, keep play time in the shade during peak times. Also, cool, comfortable clothing is a must! Make sure their head, arms and legs are covered in unbleached cotton or some type of breathable material. You can also look for clothing with an Ultraviolet Protection Factor for extra protection – just check the label. Many children’s clothing brands now make cute, wearable, and cost efficient sun-safe options.

For extra-rambunctious toddlers, water-resistant spray-on sunscreens are a huge help. Just make sure they have an SPF of 15 or higher. Reapply every two hours for continued protection.

Plan your outdoor adventures with sun safety in mind and keep things like umbrellas, sunglasses, hats, towels and water on hand for when you need a quick cool down.