Dr. Ravits of Margaret Ravits and Associates Dermatology answers Macaroni Kid readers' questions about skin, hair and nail conditions for kids and adults. Here is the third of our Ask the Experts series.
Q. "There are so many sunscreen options to choose from. What should I look for when picking the best one for my kids and myself? Which ones should I avoid?"
Q. "There are so many sunscreen options to choose from. What should I look for when picking the best one for my kids and myself? Which ones should I avoid?"
A. Apply broad spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen to your face and body everyday even on cloudy days plus an SPF 30+ lipbalm to your lips. There are many great, affordable sunscreen brands available in stores such as Eucerin, Aveeno, Cerave, and Neutrogena. You need to use at least SPF 30 or higher so it's best to avoid any sunscreens that are less than SPF 30.
Apply the sunscreen at least 30 minutes before you go outside so that it will be activated by the time that you get exposed to the sun's strong UV rays.
If you are going to the beach or on a day trip, take a bottle of sunscreen with you so that you can reapply it later but don't leave it in the hot car. Dermatologists recommend that people reapply sunscreen about every two hours but more often if you get wet while swimming or sweaty (for example, by playing sports). If you are planning to go swimming, use a water-resistant sunscreen. It is best to stay in the shade during the peak sun intensity hours (from 10AM-4PM).
As part of a complete sun protection routine, it is important to wear sunglasses with UV protection that block 99%-100% of UV rays. Also, wear sun-protective clothing such as a wide-brimmed hat and UPF-certified clothing.
Educate your kids about the reasons for sun protection so that they can understand why they need to wear sunscreen. You can get them more excited about sun protection by taking them to the store and letting them pick a hat and sunglasses that reflect their personal style. It is important to start protecting your children's skin at a young age because sun damage accumulates over the years and can lead to a later diagnosis of skin cancer.
If you are concerned about sun damage or changing moles, consult with a board-certified dermatologist.
About Dr. Margaret Ravits
Dr. Ravits is a caring, board-certified dermatologist who has many years of experience treating patients. She and her wonderful team of board-certified dermatologists offer high quality, comprehensive treatment of skin, hair, and nail conditions for the whole family (babies, children, teens, adults) in their River Edge and Hackensack offices. Along with her private practice, Dr. Ravits is a Senior Attending at Hackensack University Medical Center where she previously served 22 years as the Chief of the Division of Dermatology. She is a Clinical Associate Professor of Dermatology at Columbia-Presbyterian Hospital where she was voted Teacher of the Year four times by the dermatology residents.
Got questions for Dr. Ravits? Submit them anonymously HERE and we will post the answers in an upcoming Macaroni Kid newsletter.
Disclosure: Margaret Ravits and Associates Dermatology is a sponsor of Macaroni Kid Northeast Bergen.
If you are concerned about sun damage or changing moles, consult with a board-certified dermatologist.
About Dr. Margaret Ravits
Dr. Ravits is a caring, board-certified dermatologist who has many years of experience treating patients. She and her wonderful team of board-certified dermatologists offer high quality, comprehensive treatment of skin, hair, and nail conditions for the whole family (babies, children, teens, adults) in their River Edge and Hackensack offices. Along with her private practice, Dr. Ravits is a Senior Attending at Hackensack University Medical Center where she previously served 22 years as the Chief of the Division of Dermatology. She is a Clinical Associate Professor of Dermatology at Columbia-Presbyterian Hospital where she was voted Teacher of the Year four times by the dermatology residents.
Got questions for Dr. Ravits? Submit them anonymously HERE and we will post the answers in an upcoming Macaroni Kid newsletter.
Disclosure: Margaret Ravits and Associates Dermatology is a sponsor of Macaroni Kid Northeast Bergen.
