Sunscreen can protect you from the dangers of UV rays. Follow these tips for safe use and application:
Be sure to use the product as directed on the label.
Keep insect repellents and sunscreens locked out of sight and reach of children. IPC gets many calls every summer regarding children who have ingested sunscreen, likely because it often has a sweet, fruity odor. Luckily, a small ingestion of sunscreen is minimally toxic.
Don’t let children handle the bottles; apply to your own hands first, then put it on the child.
Do not use on wounds or broken skin.
When using sprays, do not spray directly onto the face. Spray it into your hands, and then apply to face to avoid getting it into the eyes.
Insect repellent: concentrations of up to 30% DEET (N,N-diethyl-m-toluamide) have been shown to be safe for use on children older than 2 months. Picaridin is another effective insect repellent.
Choose sunscreen labeled "broad spectrum," meaning it protects from both UVA and UVB rays with a minimum of SPF 15. Reapply every 2 hours that you are outside, and choose a water-resistant formula if you will be swimming or playing sports.