How to Avoid Summer Spoilers: Burns, Bites and Belly-Aches
The balmy days of summer can be great, especially after long months indoors. But no one wants to end a day in the sun with burning and itching summer skin or a queasy stomach. Here are some tips on how to protect yourself and your children from these familiar seasonal hazards:
1) USE SUNSCREEN. The kind of sunscreen you need depends on how dark your skin is, but for most people 30 to 45 (SPF) is sufficient, according to Dr. Larry E. Millikan, a fellow of the American Academy of Dermatology and professor emeritus at Tulane University. Be sure to apply enough—an ounce, or about a shot-glass full, is a good measure. Although some products are designed to be water-resistant, most require re-application after swimming.
2) KNOW THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN SUNSCREEN AND SUNBLOCK. "Physical blocks," containing titanium dioxide and zinc oxide, are perhaps the safest and are mandatory for persons exquisitely sensitive to sun," Millikan says. Although their opaque appearance may be a deterrent to some people, these products are considered safe for all ages and are a boon for those with sensitivities.
3) WATCH THE CLOCK. Whenever possible, keep your outdoor exposure at a minimum during the brightest time of the day—usually 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. When you are outdoors and active during peak sun, remember to re-apply sunscreen every hour.
4) STAY HYDRATED. Summer outdoor fun should always be accompanied with quantities of water, fruit juice and light drinks like lemonade and iced tea. Alcohol—even light beer—can cause damaging dehydration so drink plenty of water whenever you're indulging.
5) KEEP FOOD COOL. There's nothing dangerous bacteria love more than heat—in which they can reproduce many times faster than in cooler temperatures. Make sure ALL dairy or dairy-containing foods (seasonal favorites like potato salad, cream pies, etc.) stay refrigerated until ready to serve. Never leave mayonnaise or other dairy-rich condiments out on a sunny table—they can cause severe food poisoning!
6) DON'T LET THE BUGS BITE. Though some question the safety of insect-repelling chemicals, it's important to balance concerns about chemicals with the risk of insect-borne diseases: Where there are viral problems like West Nile, you should always use repellents when you need to be outdoors. The active times for biting insects (like ticks and spiders) are evening and early morning, so it makes sense to stay indoors during these peak times. Use caution regarding "natural" bug repellents, and read labels carefully. Some herbal products are not suitable for children younger than 3, and though there are many natural or herbal repellents on the market, experts like Millikan are skeptical about their efficacy. Also, never put anything with a strong scent on a child with asthma or other breathing problems — natural or not, these can exacerbate airway issues.
TO MAKE THE BEST OF YOUR SUMMER, stay alert and follow simple safety guidelines—have fun without worries!
1) USE SUNSCREEN. The kind of sunscreen you need depends on how dark your skin is, but for most people 30 to 45 (SPF) is sufficient, according to Dr. Larry E. Millikan, a fellow of the American Academy of Dermatology and professor emeritus at Tulane University. Be sure to apply enough—an ounce, or about a shot-glass full, is a good measure. Although some products are designed to be water-resistant, most require re-application after swimming.
2) KNOW THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN SUNSCREEN AND SUNBLOCK. "Physical blocks," containing titanium dioxide and zinc oxide, are perhaps the safest and are mandatory for persons exquisitely sensitive to sun," Millikan says. Although their opaque appearance may be a deterrent to some people, these products are considered safe for all ages and are a boon for those with sensitivities.
3) WATCH THE CLOCK. Whenever possible, keep your outdoor exposure at a minimum during the brightest time of the day—usually 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. When you are outdoors and active during peak sun, remember to re-apply sunscreen every hour.
4) STAY HYDRATED. Summer outdoor fun should always be accompanied with quantities of water, fruit juice and light drinks like lemonade and iced tea. Alcohol—even light beer—can cause damaging dehydration so drink plenty of water whenever you're indulging.
5) KEEP FOOD COOL. There's nothing dangerous bacteria love more than heat—in which they can reproduce many times faster than in cooler temperatures. Make sure ALL dairy or dairy-containing foods (seasonal favorites like potato salad, cream pies, etc.) stay refrigerated until ready to serve. Never leave mayonnaise or other dairy-rich condiments out on a sunny table—they can cause severe food poisoning!
6) DON'T LET THE BUGS BITE. Though some question the safety of insect-repelling chemicals, it's important to balance concerns about chemicals with the risk of insect-borne diseases: Where there are viral problems like West Nile, you should always use repellents when you need to be outdoors. The active times for biting insects (like ticks and spiders) are evening and early morning, so it makes sense to stay indoors during these peak times. Use caution regarding "natural" bug repellents, and read labels carefully. Some herbal products are not suitable for children younger than 3, and though there are many natural or herbal repellents on the market, experts like Millikan are skeptical about their efficacy. Also, never put anything with a strong scent on a child with asthma or other breathing problems — natural or not, these can exacerbate airway issues.
TO MAKE THE BEST OF YOUR SUMMER, stay alert and follow simple safety guidelines—have fun without worries!