Fun in the Sun Prep for Your Kiddos
The season of fun in the sun is upon us! As parents, we’re all concerned about protecting our kids from sunburn. While sunscreen may be the first thought, let me share insights from my research and personal experience—sunblock should be your last resort. Long before spring and summer roll around, I’m already strategizing how to prep my kids’ immune systems and skin for the sunny days ahead.
Sun Exposure Strategy for Resilient Skin
When the weather starts warming up, and outdoor adventures become a daily affair, the first step is exposing your kids’ skin to the sun. Once temperatures reach 70+, it’s time for shorts and t-shirts. Starting early in spring, we spend at least 4 hours a day outside without sunglasses or sunblock. Here’s the twist: not wearing sunglasses plays a significant role. Blocking sunlight from your eyes tricks the brain into thinking it’s darker than it is, preventing the signal to prepare the skin for sun exposure. This method has made a remarkable difference in preventing sunburn.
Sunglasses, Sunblock, and the Skin-Brain Connection
Contrary to popular belief, ditching sunglasses doesn’t mean compromising eye health. Instead, it establishes a natural connection between the eyes, brain, and skin. While we avoid sunglasses, I only resort to mineral-based SPF 30 sunblock when we’re around water, limiting its use to once in a 24-hour period. The conscious decision not to rely on constant sunblock application has resulted in healthier, less sunburn-prone skin.
Hats – A Stylish Sun Shield
Embracing hats as a stylish sun shield is a win-win. We make hats a constant accessory in our outdoor adventures. Unlike sunglasses, hats don’t interfere with the natural connection between the eyes and skin. This simple addition adds an extra layer of protection without compromising the body’s ability to adapt to sun exposure.
Mama’s Fun in the Sun Recipes
This summer experiment, exposing our skin to the sun without sunglasses and minimal sunblock, has proven successful. While our skin may get a little pink, the natural tanning process kicks in, leaving us with a healthy golden glow. Last year’s struggles with sunburn are now a thing of the past, thanks to an awareness of the impact of sunglasses on skin health. Interested in Mama’s Fun in the Sun Recipes and the products we swear by? Download the free guide available in the shop.