Warm weather in New Jersey means trips to the shore. Dr. Ravits of Margaret Ravits and Associates Dermatology provides four tips to keep your skin and your children's skin healthy on a day at the beach and protect them from the sun's strong UV rays. That way you can enjoy your day at the beach and return home with joyous memories instead of a painful sunburn.
1. A half hour before you go outside, apply water-resistant, broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30+ or higher) and lip balm (SPF 15+) to your skin and your children's skin (age 6 months and older). Use one ounce of sunscreen per person. That's about enough to fill a shot glass. Thoroughly rub the sunscreen into the skin.
2. Wear a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses with UV protection, and sun protective clothing for added protection from the sun.
3. Take a bottle of sunscreen with you so that you can reapply it later. Reapply about every two hours or more often if you get wet or sweaty.
4. Seek shade and try to limit your sun exposure especially during the peak sun hours (10AM-4PM). Avoid laying on the beach and tanning. Excess sun exposure causes skin damage and premature skin aging, and increases your risk of developing skin cancer. If you are concerned about sun damage or changing moles, consult with a board-certified dermatologist.
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About Dr. Margaret Ravits
Dr. Ravits is a caring, experienced, board-certified dermatologist who treats patients of all ages. She and her wonderful team of board-certified dermatologists offer comprehensive treatment of skin, hair, and nail conditions 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 as the Chief of the Division of Dermatology for 22 years. She is also a Clinical Associate Professor of Dermatology at NY-Presbyterian Hospital. To learn more about Dr. Ravits, visit her website at http://www.ravitsdermatology.com.
Disclosure: Margaret Ravits and Associates Dermatology is a sponsor of Macaroni Kid Northeast Bergen. Originally published July 21, 2017.
