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Kids Summer Safety
September 4, 2007
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Most children rack up between fifty and eighty percent of their lifetime sun exposure
before they turn 18 years old.
We hear about skin cancer in the media almost daily-but just as important as the
sun’s over exposure to the skin is the eyes. Ophthalmologist Michael Collins explains,
“When you’re young a lot of damage occurs that causes problems later in life. Dermatologists
are finding that out about the skin and we’re finding that out about the eyes. So
UV exposure when your young can cause damage later on in life so it really is important.”
Dr. Collins says that even just one day in the sun without eye protection can result
in a burned cornea, or the outer layer of the eye. Long-term affects can result
in cataracts-yes even if you have young kids its never too early to start teaching
good habits because they are your biggest fans. “If we go boating or spend time
outside if you wear a hat or wear sunglasses and make it look cool to them they’re
going to want to do it as well.”
Not all children enjoy wearing sunglasses, especially the first few times so let
them pick out a color and style they would wear. take Dr. Collins advice and make
sure the UV protection is the best for your little one. “The best sunglasses are
the ones that protect UV rays you want to get something that protects 99% to 100%
of UV rays. You want to get something that’s form fitting on the eyes that wraps
close to the eyes. If its something that sits out on the nose, its not going to
really protect from the sun like you want it too.”
Don’t forget your kids want to be like grown ups, so set a good example by taking
the right sun precautions and your kids will follow along.
Wearing SPF protection around the eyes and on the lids can also help with direct
sun exposure.
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