IMPORTANT NOTES FROM THE NURSE

Good Sun Sense

Sunny spring is here and it's time to add sunscreen to your shopping list. A good all-purpose sunscreen should be waterproof, have an SPF of 15-30, and offer both UVA and UVB protection. Also check the expiration date on last year's supply as products lose their efficacy over time. Product selections should be made after reading the labels. Milky lotions are recommended for younger children's delicate skin. Gel-based products are recommended for oily skinned teens, as they don't clog their pores. Most allergic reactions are attributed to fragrances and preservatives in the products. So look for fragrance-free and PABA-free products. PABA is a chemical that can irritate the skin. The sun's rays are most dangerous between 11 AM and 3 PM. For best results, sunscreen should be applied 30 minutes before going outside. It should also be reapplied after swimming, even if the label says it's waterproof. Cloudy days, staying in the shade, or being underwater do not give you complete protection from the sun. Rays bounce and reflect from all directions, and 70-85% of the sun's rays are still present and can burn your skin.

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