Sunglasses, hats and creams: 5 tips on how to protect yourself and your child from strong sun
Ah, sunbathing. Whereas people used to work on their tans generously with sun oil, reflectors or solariums, we now know more about the dangers that UV radiation can bring with it when sunbathing: premature skin aging, pigment spots, an increased risk of skin cancer, eye damage. And children's skin and eyes are particularly at risk: the skin of small children is much thinner than that of adults, their own UV protection has yet to fully develop and the invisible UV radiation is also harmful to sensitive children's eyes.
The younger the child, the better they need to be protected from direct sunlight - even if they themselves may not feel like applying sunscreen or wearing sun protection clothing. Luckily, these days there are cool sunglasses, sustainable sunscreens and comfortable UV clothing that will help you to really enjoy the summer without worry.
By the way: If you have neglected the topic of sun protection for yourself and your children, it is never too early or too late to start using sun protection. We can help you.
1. Check the UV index in the morning
The strength of UV radiation cannot necessarily be determined by looking at the sky: a sunny winter day may not require any special protection, but a cloudy summer day may. It is best to check the IV index for your location in your weather app or on the website of the Federal Office for Radiation Protection .
The UV index (UVI) is internationally standardized and describes the expected daily peak value of sunburn-causing UV radiation . The higher the number on the scale (in Germany it is usually between 1 and 9), the better you should protect yourself and your child from the sun. In addition to the UV index, you will also be shown directly which precise protective measures are required for your location. Practical!
2. Put on the pretty sunglasses
Children have larger pupils and more transparent lenses than adults, which means that more UV rays reach the inside of the eyes and can damage the retina. To protect your child's eyes from long-term damage caused by UV radiation, you should invest in good sunglasses that block 100% of the dangerous radiation - especially in summer, in the mountains, in tropical areas, on a skiing holiday or on the water.
Then you've come to the right place at Manti Manti: Our robust, sustainable children's sunglasses MIMI Mini are particularly suitable for children between 3 and 9 years old. Their classic but playful shape flatters every face shape. They have high-quality black sunglasses lenses with 100% UV protection and a category 3 tint, and the frame is made from 100% castor oil in Germany. And for a summery partner look, there are the adult sunglasses MINI Maxi for big sister, grandpa or of course mom and dad. Cool, right?
3. Use enough sunscreen
Baby and child skin is not yet fully developed and is sensitive, so it needs to be particularly well protected from the sun. It is advisable to use sun creams with a particularly high sun protection factor of at least 30, preferably 50, to prevent sun damage. In addition, the creams - like all cosmetic products for children - should be as free as possible from fragrances, colors, preservatives, nanoparticles, parabens and questionable substances. Also make sure that your sun cream protects against both UVA and UVB radiation. UVB rays can cause sunburn, while UVA rays contribute to skin aging without you noticing.
Please do not forget to apply sunscreen before leaving the house, use enough product (usually more than you think, as this is the only way to achieve the specified sun protection factor) and reapply regularly, approximately every two hours, especially after bathing and even when using waterproof sunscreen.
Our favorite: The fragrance-free baybies sun cream especially for baby and children's skin has a high sun protection factor of 50. With a purely mineral sun protection filter and no added colorants, preservatives, nanoparticles, parabens or harmful substances, it is particularly suitable for sensitive children's skin. The baybies sun cream is certified natural cosmetics, waterproof, vegan and also protects coral reefs and waters and is therefore compliant with the Hawaiian Reef Act. Your child will definitely like it too.
4. Wear appropriate sun clothing
Sun protection in the form of hats with neck protection and caps or light clothing with long sleeves and trouser legs is helpful in protecting children's skin from harmful sun rays. Every item of clothing has a certain sun protection factor: the thicker, denser and darker the material, the better it protects; the thinner, lighter and lighter it is, the less well it protects. Nevertheless, you should avoid the blazing sun even when wearing long, thick clothing.
If your child wants to play in the sun, for example on the beach, it is best to put special UV shirts and pants with long sleeves and legs on them. However, you should still make sure to apply sunscreen to exposed parts of the body such as hands, feet and neck. When buying special UV clothing, you can look for the “UV Standard 801” seal, which guarantees the highest safety standards.
Still looking for a cool cap? Take a look at our Manti Manti shop , we have some great models in stock.
5. Just stay in the shade
This may sound a bit boring, but in the midday heat between 12 and 4 p.m. in midsummer, it is still advisable to stay indoors with children and simply avoid UV radiation completely. If this is not possible, you can seek shade with your child as often as possible: under a tree, in a café, at the nearest parasol. This is not only good for the eyes and skin, but also for the circulation.
Children learn best by observing and imitating their parents and caregivers. It is therefore advisable to be careful not to lie in the blazing sun at midday, but to protect yourself from the rays just as much as your child. And applying sunscreen together in the morning or taking selfies in sunglasses together are the best anyway, right? We wish you the best of luck with sun protection.
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