Some parents protect their children from solar radiation, while others take them to the sea in the first years of life.
Who is right in this situation? Therefore, it is worth understanding what are the benefits and harms of sun rays for children's skin.
Benefits of Sunlight
You definitely shouldn't hide your child from the sun. Here are some useful properties to remember.
- The sun is a powerful antidepressant.
- Increases immunity. It should be no secret that sunbathing provides hardening.
- The body produces vitamin D, which is necessary for strengthening bones.
- Skin disinfection. Of course, the effect can be called preventive.
Despite the listed advantages, pediatric oncologist of the 1st category of the HappyDerm medical center Lyudmila Artyushkevich notes the danger that cannot be ignored. Malignant skin diseases in children are a rare phenomenon. But what about the consequences in adulthood?
Excessive exposure to ultraviolet radiation is the main risk factor for melanoma. WHO experts have long noted the fact that there is no safe dose of ultraviolet radiation. And if a person got sunburned in childhood and adolescence, the risk of developing melanoma increases by 2 times.
For whom is solar radiation most dangerous?
- for children with fair skin, as it is more susceptible to sunburn;
- for babies with freckles;
- for children with a large number of pigmented nevi (moles);
- if one of your relatives has melanoma.
How to protect a child
Children's skin is sensitive to the effects of ultraviolet radiation. Long-term exposure to direct sunlight is contraindicated. And in order for the body to produce the necessary amount of vitamin D, walks in the shade of trees should be sufficient.
Every day, a child should be outdoors for at least 2 hours. Children under 3 years old should not be in the sun for more than 15 minutes. It is a little more difficult with teenagers, because it is always more difficult to limit their time in the sun. In this case, it is enough to have a conversation and tell about the possible risks.
In summer, outdoor activities should be limited from 12:00 to 15:00. During this period, sun rays pose a serious danger. The rest of the time, the skin should be protected with light-colored clothing made of natural fabrics. Also, do not forget about hats and sunscreens.
It is important for parents to regularly examine the child's skin and pay attention to changes in existing moles and the appearance of new ones. The child's health depends not only on the qualifications of the specialist, parents must take timely measures.
