Photoprotection, what it is and why it is essential for children exposed to the sun (not only on the beach)

Expose yourself to the sun has healthy effects for our body. Not only for adults, but also for children. However, especially the little ones, they must do it in an prudent way, since the damage caused by ultraviolet rays can affect their health by adults. This is why the World Health Academy of Dermatology and Pediatrics (Whad & P) gathered in Rome a panel of international experts to clarify the Pediatric photoprotection. A document shared with the « guidelines for photoprotection in pediatric age » clarifies the correct lifestyles and behaviors to be adopted.

Sun, possible damage to children

THE ultraviolet rays They are responsible not only for potential acute skin damage, such as thesolar burning and the photodermatitisbut also and above all of long -term damage, such as theonset of skin tumors. The skin melanomain particular, seems to be related to intense and intermittent exposures, which often cause solar burns, especially to those that occurred in the pediatric age. “A photoprotection must be used whenever the‘UV Index is equal to or greater than 3which can also occur on sunny days in winter – recommends Fabio ArcangeliPresident Whad & P -. This Index is usually provided by all the weather app ». The experts have drawn attention to the potential toxicity of some chemicals contained in solar filters, as documented by authoritative studies and indicated by pediatric associations.

Solar filters, the principle of caution

«It is necessary to caution with respect to the use of some solar filters, since they are absorbed by the skin. Thus they cease to be cosmetics and can interfere with the functions of our body, causing harmful effects on human health and the environment -continues Arcangeli -. Even if most of the studies available regarding their toxicity come from animal models, the fact that after application of the skin these substances can be traced in high doses within the human body creates a strong and justified concern « . Shakes, small children and pregnant women are particularly at risk. In fact, many organic filters can be traced in the blood, placenta and breast milk And they can increase the incidence of malformations to the fetus. « Currently in Europe solar filters are not recorded as drugs, like what happens in the United States, but fall into the category of cosmetics, thus following less rigorous safety standards -underlines Arcangeli -. Considering these drug products certainly does not mean making them subjects to prescription, but subjecting them to a regulation that can better evaluate their effectiveness and safety requirements ».

Solar, how to choose them

Among the most critical components present in the sun creams there is the 3-Benzofenone, A substance attentive but not always recognizable by the beginning of the product, since, like most inorganic filters, it can be indicated with many different names. The most immediate consequence is that at the moment It is almost impossible to orient yourself in choosing the least dangerous products. Until we have demonstration of safe organic filters, experts advise always prefer solar products containing inorganic moleculesabove all zinc oxidepossibly not formulated in nanoparticles or nebulized and associated with natural substances with antioxidant properties. « The product should be biodegradable and eco -sustainable packaging -recommends Arcangeli -. It is good to consult the family pediatrician or the dermatologist to orient himself both in the adoption of the best photoprotection strategy, variable according to the phototype, and in the choice of the sun cream « .

Children in the sun, never without protection

Before the 6 months of life, children should not be intentionally exposed to the sun. «We need to adopt lifestyles and adequate behaviors to protect children as much as possible. These include to avoid direct exposure to the sun, especially in the central hours of the day, use photoprotective clothing, wide apendous hats and sunglasses and exploiting the shadow whenever possible, not only for children but also for adults -recommends Arcangeli -. Then you have to be aware of the effects of wind, clouds and reflective surfaces, such as water and snow, which can increase exposure to UV rays. All these measures must be integrated with the use of sunscreen which, although indispensable, represent only one of the defense tools ».

Opening activities: how to protect children

In case of outdoor activities they should be used protective clothing, preferably dark color and dense plot. Better yet Technical clothing with Ultraviolet Protection Factor – Upf. When the solar filters are necessary, such as on the beach, it is recommended to use a right amount, or 2 milligrams per square centimeter of body surface (10-15 ml for the entire body of a 5-year-old boy), from Apply 30 minutes before exposure and to be repeated every two hours and after the bathroom. The use of sun cream must not generate a false sense of safety and induce to increase exposure times. The skin redness and the burning sensation that accompanies it are often bells of extreme alarm, which announce that the borderline of one’s skin has been exceeded.