Five easy steps to sun safety with the Smile Zone

Let's face it, summer can get pretty darn hot. Whether your little one is relaxing by the pool or catching some rays at the family picnic, Drs. Rob and Jerome want you to think more and more about sun safety when you’re out and about with your child. There are many ways kids can protect themselves during the summer, and Parents Magazine has kindly provided five tips to help you get started with sun protection:

1. Limit outdoor playtime. Anywhere between 10a.m. and 4p.m. is usually the hottest time of the day.

2. Apply sunscreen properly. (Choose a sunscreen with SPF (Sun Protection Factor) 15 or higher. Make sure you apply to nose, ears, hands, feet, shoulders and behind the neck. Lips can also burn, so apply a lip balm with SPF protection.

3. Wearing protective clothing. This includes a hat with a brim, sunglasses and a large umbrella.

4. Watch those medications. Some medications increase the skin's sensitivity to the sun, so make sure to ask your doctor whether your child may be at risk.

5. You're the parent - set a good example. If your child sees you following sun-safety rules, he or she will follow suit.

Drs. Rob and Jerome, as well as our entire staff, encourage you to always have a bottle of water handy when heading out!

Questions? Concerns? Give us a call!

We hope you're all having a GREAT summer so far!