How to protect your family in the sun

Supposedly we are in for a long and hot summer with lots of sunshine. So let's be optimistic and hope for sunny days at the beach, picnics in the park and many barbeques with the whole family. But let's also be careful and make sure that we protect us and our children from the damaging effects of the sun.

To give you the information you need to protect your family, Mummy Alarm has teamed up with Clare Kerr, sun care expert from Lloydspharmacy who is sharing her top tips with you:

• Children and babies need extra protection because their skin is more delicate, especially if they have red hair, pale eyes or freckles. It’s best to use a water resistant sunscreen with an SPF of 30 to 50, and keep babies under six months out of direct sunlight completely.
• Even if you are in shade you can still get burned, some rays do get through so sitting in the shade is not an excuse to not wear sunscreen. 
• The sun’s rays can still burn you when it’s overcast. The sun may not have his hat on, but you and especially your little ones should! 
• In the UK, when applied correctly, sunscreens with an SPF of 15 and above can provide adequate protection against sunburn, skin damage, premature ageing, wrinkling and skin cancers. As basic rule, those travelling abroad should use at least SPF30.

•  Research shows that many people do not use enough sunscreen to provide adequate protection. Apply a generous amount of sunscreen  about half an hour before going out in the sun so that it has time to absorb into your skin and dry. 
• When applying sunscreen, pay particular attention to the skin near to the edges of clothing, such as straps and necklines, as these areas can easily be missed. 
• Reapply sunscreen regularly (at least every two to three hours) as it can rub off on towels, sand or after going in the water. Even water-resistant sunscreens should be reapplied after you come out of the water as it can be rubbed off when drying yourself with a towel. Try setting a reminder on your phone! 
• Use a stick application with a high SPF for exposed areas, such as your nose, ears and lips because these areas tend to burn more easily. 
• Always use after sun to put moisture back into your skin after you’ve been in the sun. It’ll keep you looking young! 

Over the next couple of weeks, Mummy Alarm will run a series of features and product reviews to help you make sure you'll get through the summer safely. So pop round regularly to see how you can protect yourself and your family without missing out on fun time in the sun.