Sun Safety Week June 1-7

Sun Safety Week

June 1 - 7

Baby Banz is excited to help you and your customers celebrate Sun Safety Week, an important awareness event that was first observed in 2004. Sun Safety Week is organized by The Sun Safety Alliance, a non-profit organization dedicated to educating the public and showing them how they can adopt and practice safe sun protection. During Sun Safety Week, families are encouraged to learn more about sun protection methods and to actively use these methods to protect themselves and their families. Unfortunately, skin cancer is at a record high, so it is very important that people learn the risks of prolonged exposure to UV rays.

To help raise awareness and promote proper sun protection, Baby Banz has a nice selection of promotional items. These items can be given away to customers and local schools/preschools to help advertise your business while also teaching people about the benefits of safe sun practices. An excellent promotional giveaway for this month are Baby Banz Adventure Banz wrap-around sunglasses for ages 0-5. This helpful product will show your customers that you care about their health and want them to stay informed. Give us a call today 877-333-0074 to find out about our discounts for companies that giveaway Baby Banz!

How to choose the right sunscreen for you and yoru family.

Confused by the types of sunscreens available?

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With so many types of sunscreens on the market, it's no wonder we get overwhelmed at the drug store when we go to stock up for summer.
The types of sunscreen you choose is really a matter of personal choice.
You need to decide:

• What feels best on your skin. • Which is easiest to apply and re-apply. • What activities are you participating in? (e.g. Running, biking, hiking, swimming, surfing, skiing or sun bathing). • Are you using it on your face or body?

Sunscreens are available in many forms including:

• Gel sunscreen
• Cream sunscreen
• Sunscreen lotions
• Sunscreen wipe
• Spray sunscreen
• Colored sunscreen
• Powder sunscreen

Some people complain that certain types of sunscreens make them break-out, are too oily, cause allergic reactions, dry their skin out or are full of harmful chemicals.
Over the last few years the advancements in many new types of sunscreen have eliminated many of these problems.

We recommend broad spectrum sunscreen with UVA and UVB protection, a SPF rating of 30 or higher and is gentle enough to wear everyday.

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If you have sensitive skin:Look for all natural sunscreen:

• Paba free sunscreen - most sunscreens are now PABA-free
• oil-free sunscreen -
• hypoallergenic, fragrance free sunscreen, chemical free sunscreen
• mineral based sunscreen - the minerals titanium dioxide and zinc oxide sit on the skin instead of being absorbed into it

Many parents opt for sunscreens made for sensitive skin to use on their children. For more information about sunscreen for children, click here:


If you're acne-prone:look for:

• Light, oil free lotions will not clog pores
• With chemical sunscreens avobenzone and oxybenzone
• Non-comedogenic (meaning it won't clog pores) and is fragrance-free

If you have oily skin, look for:

• Mineral oil-free sunscreen
• Non-comedogenic sunscreen
• Sunscreens that are oil free are usually water or gel based

Good common sense tips for Acne-prone, oily and sensitive skin:

• Don't use the same sunscreen meant for your body on your face
• If you are using a topical acne treatment? Apply it first, wait 20 minutes or so and then apply your sun protection over the top
• Remember to wash your face before going to bed to prevent pores from clogging

If you’re a swimmer or outdoor sports “person”, look for:

• Water-resistant or waterproof sun protection
• The highest SPF you can find ( No sunscreen is 100 % water and sweat proof )
• Keep away from your eyes
• Re-apply after you get out of the water or every 2 hours

If you've got dry skin, look for:

• Try creams or lotions with extra hydrating ingredients like glycerin and aloe.
• Avoid sprays and gels with alcohol

If you want all organic, look for:

• Products contain herbs, minerals, and plants only
• Chemical-free

Which type of sunblock is better: Chemical vs.Physical?

The key to finding the best types of sunscreens for you is to shop around. If you don’t like one product, try another, and another until you find the ones you like.

Is my sunscreen enough, is it even still good?

How to determine the effectiveness of sunscreens

The effectiveness of sunscreens are determined by it's age and where you stored it during the winter.
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It’s finally summer and you've got the cooler's stocked, your favorite swimsuit still fits (phew)and you grabbed the suntan lotion from last summer and threw it in your beach bag.
You’re ready and heading out the door: STOP!!!

Ask yourself this question first: How old is my sunscreen? If you don't know the answer - throw it away and buy a new bottle.

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We often have several bottles of sunscreen laying around our house, car or boat and have no clue how old they are and if they're still any good.


It's a very common question – Does sunscreens expire? YES – Just like any medication, the effectiveness of sunscreens will deteriorate over time.

Here are a few tips to make sure your sunscreen is still effective:

1. Look for an Expiration date.

• If you can’t find one – TOSS IT - a new one should cost less than $20

2. Sunscreens have a shelf life of 2-3 years from the date of manufacture.

• The FDA requires sunscreens to remain at their original strength for at least three years.
• However, the manufacture date and the date you bought it are two different things. Sometime sunscreen sits on the drug store shelf for 6 months to a year.
• I suggest buying sunscreen at the beginning of each season when the store shelves have just been re-stocked with new merchandise.
• Use a permanent marker to note your own “use by” date.

3. Sunscreen should be stored at a temperature of about 77º F.

• When stored at high temperature – the effectiveness of sunscreen decreases and become less stable and reliable.
• Replace your sunscreen if you kept it in your car, boat, garage, golf bag, or beach bag last year. It probably got very hot and has degraded.
• Keep your sunscreen in your cooler when you go to the beach, lake or any outdoor activity – It feels cool and refreshing when you re-apply.

4. Don’t buy sunscreen “on sale” at the end of the season. It’s a waste of money.

• Do not buy sunscreen in bulk unless you and your family go through a couple of bottles of sunscreen a season. That is the only time it’s a good deal – sorry, Costco and Sam’s Club shoppers.

The effectiveness of sunscreen is important – old and uncared for sunscreen can easily turn into glorified moisturizers with no sun protection at all.
Bottom line: To be on the safe side, buy new sunscreen every year. Sunscreen should not be your only strategy for skin protection. Even with sunscreen, exposure from intense rays can still be dangerous. Use sun protective clothing for added protection.

LOVE the sun....Hate the burn.

Sun Safety Matters All Year Long

Sun Safety is something that we all think about during the summer months, but what about the fall and winter? The sun's damaging rays are around us all year round, and just because it's overcast outside does not mean your children are safe from the same potential UV damage they would receive in full sunlight. Too often the sunscreen and sunglasses get packed away in August leaving kids squinting and exposed during colder weather. Make sun safety a habit year round, your kids will thank you for it when they are older!

Some good year-round sun prevention tips:

1. Wear a wide-brimmed hat that is large enough to allow for plenty of air flow.
2. Avoid a lot of activity or stay in the shade during the hottest time of the day (between 10 AM and 2 PM).
3. Avoid lengthy exposure to the sun.
4. Apply a sunscreen that is SPF 30 or higher anytime kids are in direct sunlight (talk to your pediatrician about using sunscreen on any child younger than 6 months of age).
5. Wear sunglasses that are UVA/UVB CSA certified and block out 100% of UVA/B rays - like Baby Banz - going skiing or sledding? Try Ski Banz Ski Goggles!

Skin cancer - the facts - Stay Safe in the sun

• Skin cancer often first appears as a change in a mole or a patch of skin.
• The most serious type of skin cancer is a malignant melanoma but other types, known as non-melanomas, are the most common.
• When found early melanomas can be treated quickly and cured.
• The main cause of skin cancer is too much sun and sunburn can double the risk.
• The most common sites for melanoma are the leg in women, the back in men and the face in older people, but they can grow anywhere.
• You may have some moles or dark patches on your skin that are flat or slightly raised. Usually these will remain harmless all your life.
• Show your doctor any moles or patches of normal skin that change in size, shape or color over weeks or months.
• Other signs that need to be checked out include a new growth or sore that won't heal, a spot, mole or sore that itches or hurts or a mole or growth that bleeds, crusts or scabs.

December Reviews and Press

Winter Sun Safety Tips from Baby Banz

As cooler temperatures arrive, parents are unpacking sweaters, scarves and gloves. Unfortunately, many of them are also packing away sunglasses and sunscreen from summer. Most parents layer on the sun protection during the summer, but what about winter months? Consider the facts that 80% of sun damage children will receive occurs before the age of 18, and just one sunburn in childhood can increase the risks of melanoma in adulthood. Kids participating in winter activities, like skiing, snowboarding, or even snowball fights in the backyard face just as much risk for getting sunburned as they do at the beach!

Snow amplifies the burning potential of the sun by reflecting the ultraviolet radiation (UVR) that causes sunburns. In fact, snow reflects about 85% of the sun’s rays, while water reflects 100%. At higher elevations, where skiers and snowboarders generally play, the thinner atmosphere screens out significantly less of the incoming UVR than it does at lower elevations.

Baby BanZ offers these tips for staying protected all year:

Don't forget the eyes! Sunlight reflecting off snow, sand or water further increases exposure to UV radiation, increasing the risk of developing eye problems such as cataracts. Long hours on the beach or in the snow without adequate eye protection can result in a short-term condition known as photokeratitis, or reversible sunburn of the cornea. This painful condition--also known as "snow blindness"-can cause temporary loss of vision.

When buying sunglasses, look for a label that specifically offers 100% UV protection. This assures that the glasses block both UVA and UVB radiation. Children should wear real sunglasses-not toy sunglasses-that indicate the UV protection level. Dark or tinted eyewear sold as fashion accessories may provide little or no protection from UV or visible light. Polycarbonate lenses are the most shatter-resistant.

Sunscreen. When selecting a sunscreen, look for the label "broad spectrum (UVA/UVB)" and a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 15. Since sunscreen isn't fully effective right away, apply sunscreen half an hour before going out in the sun. Then reapply it generously and often- don't forget the ears, neck and hands. Discard old or expired sunscreen.

Hat. Wear a wide-brim hat that protects the face and back of the neck.

Peak Hours. The most significant sun exposure occurs between 10 a.m.-3 p.m. During these times put on extra sunscreen or take a break from the sun and get some lunch.

Baby Banz on A Morning Ottawa Morning Show!

Check out our Operations Manager, Shari spreading the news about Baby Banz and UV protection on Ottawa's A Morning Show last Friday!




Direct link: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x5lP2aHx0Mw

Protecting Children from the Sun

Just a few serious sunburns can increase your child's risk of skin cancer later in life. Kids don't have to be at the pool, beach, or on vacation to get too much sun. Their skin needs protection from the sun's harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays whenever they're outdoors.

• Seek shade. UV rays are strongest and most harmful during midday, so it's best to plan indoor activities then. If this is not possible, seek shade under a tree, an umbrella, or a pop-up tent. Use these options to prevent sunburn, not to seek relief after it's happened.
• Cover up. Clothing that covers your child's skin helps protect against UV rays. Although a long-sleeved shirt and long pants with a tight weave are best, they aren't always practical. A T-shirt, long shorts, or a beach cover-up are good choices, too—but it's wise to double up on protection by applying sunscreen or keeping your child in the shade when possible.
• Get a hat. Hats that shade the face, scalp, ears, and neck are easy to use and give great protection. Baseball caps are popular among kids, but they don't protect their ears and neck. If your child chooses a cap, be sure to protect exposed areas with sunscreen.
• Wear sunglasses. They protect your child's eyes from UV rays, which can lead to cataracts later in life. Look for sunglasses that wrap around and block as close to 100% of both UVA and UVB rays as possible.
• Apply sunscreen. Use sunscreen with at least SPF 15 and UVA and UVB protection every time your child goes outside. For the best protection, apply sunscreen generously 30 minutes before going outdoors. Don't forget to protect ears, noses, lips, and the tops of feet.

Take sunscreen with you to reapply during the day, especially after your child swims or exercises. This applies to waterproof and water-resistant products as well.

Follow the directions on the package for using a sunscreen product on babies less than 6 months old. All products do not have the same ingredients; if your or your child's skin reacts badly to one product, try another one or call a doctor. Your baby's best defense against sunburn is avoiding the sun or staying in the shade.

Keep in mind, sunscreen is not meant to allow kids to spend more time in the sun than they would otherwise. Try combining sunscreen with other options to prevent UV damage.

Too Much Sun Hurts

Turning pink? Unprotected skin can be damaged by the sun's UV rays in as little as 15 minutes. Yet it can take up to 12 hours for skin to show the full effect of sun exposure. So, if your child's skin looks "a little pink" today, it may be burned tomorrow morning. To prevent further burning, get your child out of the sun.

Tan? There's no other way to say it—tanned skin is damaged skin. Any change in the color of your child's skin after time outside—whether sunburn or suntan—indicates damage from UV rays.

Cool and cloudy? Children still need protection. UV rays, not the temperature, do the damage. Clouds do not block UV rays, they filter them—and sometimes only slightly.

Oops! Kids often get sunburned when they are outdoors unprotected for longer than expected. Remember to plan ahead, and keep sun protection handy—in your car, bag, or child's backpack.

Sun Safety at School

The brochure Sun Safety at Schools: What You Can Do (PDF-245KB) explains how school administrators and staff, parents, and community healthcare service providers can promote sun safety.

View page in

• Español (Spanish)

Contact Us:

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
  Division of Cancer Prevention and Control
  
• cdcinfo@cdc.gov

• Content source: Division of Cancer Prevention and Control, National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion

Lack of Eye Protection From UV Rays May Cause Damage Now and Later in Life

Lack of Eye Protection From UV Rays May Cause Damage Now and Later in Life

Prevent Blindness America Warns Public on Possible Immediate and Lasting Effects of UV Damage

CHICAGO (April 29, 2009) – Ultraviolet (UV) rays are well known for their damaging effects on the skin. One area of the body that sunscreen cannot protect is the eyes. Prolonged exposure to UV rays can cause “sunburns” to the eye, also known as photokeratitis. The painful condition may result in temporary loss of vision for 1-2 days. In addition, the presence of pterygium, a growth of tissue that forms on the white of the eye, is in direct correlation to the amount of UV exposure that the person has been subjected to. Without treatment, this condition may require surgical treatment.

The damaging effects of UV rays may not develop until years later. In fact, UV damage is cumulative and has been linked to cataracts and macular degeneration later in life. The delicate skin around the eye and the eyelids is also susceptible to UV damage. According to the Office of Air and Radiation at the Environmental Protection Agency, basal cell carcinoma is the most common type of skin cancer to affect the eyelids and may appear on the lower lid, in the corners of the eye and under eyebrows.

Prevent Blindness America, the nation’s oldest volunteer eye health and safety organization, has declared May as UV Awareness Month to help educate the public on how to protect their eyes. Fortunately, protecting the eyes and vision is easy and does not have to be expensive. No matter what time of year it is or what the weather forecast is, sunglasses that block 100 percent of UV-A and UV-B rays should always be worn in conjunction with a brimmed hat. While UV-A has lower energy, it penetrates deep into the eye and may injure the macula, the part of the retina responsible for sight in the center field of vision. UV-B radiation is presumably more dangerous and is mainly absorbed by the cornea and lens of the eye and can damage those tissues.

Wrap-around sunglasses are best as they protect the eyes and the skin around the eyes. Some contact lenses may offer UV protection but they can’t protect the entire eye and the skin around it.

“When we head outside to enjoy the great outdoors, we all need to remember to protect one of our greatest gifts—our sight,” said Hugh R. Parry, president and CEO of Prevent Blindness America. “We adults need to be good examples for our children and encourage them to get in the habit of protecting their vision for years to come.”

According to the American Optometric Association, children are at a greater risk of UV damage because the lenses of their eyes are more transparent, which allows more short wavelength light to reach the retina. Parents looking to purchase sunglasses for their children should remember to buy sunglasses with the proper UV protection. Sunglasses without UV protection may shade the eyes but actually cause the pupils to dilate, allowing in even more harmful rays.

And, children’s glasses should be made of unbreakable polycarbonate to fit their active lifestyle. The frames should be bendable and the lenses should not pop out. The child should try the sunglasses on and make sure they shield enough of the eye above, below and on the sides.

For more information on the dangers of UV exposure and more information on how to choose the best sunglasses for adults and children, please visit preventblindness.org/uv or call (800) 331-2020.

About Prevent Blindness America

Founded in 1908, Prevent Blindness America is the nation's leading volunteer eye health and safety organization dedicated to fighting blindness and saving sight. Focused on promoting a continuum of vision care, Prevent Blindness America touches the lives of millions of people each year through public and professional education, advocacy, certified vision screening and training, community and patient service programs and research. These services are made possible through the generous support of the American public. Together with a network of affiliates, divisions and chapters, it's committed to eliminating preventable blindness in America. For more information, or to make a contribution to the sight-saving fund, call 1-800-331-2020.

Parents Ignorant About Eye Risk From Sun Exposure

Parents Ignorant About Eye Risk From Sun Exposure

Submitted by Ricky on August 19, 2009 – 9:15 pm

In an appalling revelation, experts have cautioned that three out of four parents are putting their children’s eyesight in jeopardy by exposing them to bright sunlight without the use of apposite eye protective gear.

In a survey undertaken by the College of Optometrists on two thousand people, it was found that close to a third of British-origin parents didn’t invest in sun-protective glasses for their children. Even in those that did buy them, close to half of them laid greater emphasis on costing rather than adequate protection and merely a quarter of them bought sun-protective eyewear from reputed brands.

The College of Optometrists advocates the choice of dark coloured glasses bearing the CE quality trademark. Experts have counselled that those with light eyes are at greater risk from sun damage, with those having blue coloured eyes must constantly use sunglasses.

The ultra-violet rays emitted from the sunrays can harm the retinal area and lens of the eyes that can cause considerable damage in the long run. Excessive sun exposure is being strongly related to cataracts and age-associated macular deterioration. Wearing inferior quality sunglasses that have no UV filter protection causes greater damage than not wearing any sunglasses as improper eyewear causes pupil dilation that in turn allows more damaging sunrays to penetrate the eyes. The risk is directly proportional to the UV exposure.

Experts at the Royal College of Optometrists state that even good-quality; CE-marked sunglasses needn’t be highly priced, with budget-friendly options being plentiful. Wearing a sunhat along with sunglasses is the right choice as children tend to often remove off their shades. The use of sun protective glasses should be followed when venturing out to the beach.

The studies undertaken in this regard have however revealed diverse end result s regarding whether UV rays cause major damage. The Royal College of Ophthalmologists states that really young children should be majorly kept away from bright sunlight.

Sunglasses covering up a sobering health concern

Sunglasses covering up a sobering health concern

By Lori Kennedy-Stewart

Published: Thursday, August 13, 2009 at 3:39 p.m.
Last Modified: Thursday, August 13, 2009 at 3:39 p.m.

When getting ready to enjoy the outdoors, it’s easy to remember your skincare needs, but don’t forget the sunblock for your eyes – your sunglasses.

An optometrist for Port City Eye Associates in Wilmington, Jason Hendrix’s office is stocked with the latest sunglasses. Regardless of the summer season, Hendrix encourages eye care outdoors year round. “It doesn’t matter if it’s the summer or the spring, you need to protect your eyes in the fall and winter just as much,” Hendrix says.

This is especially imperative for individuals involved in outdoor sports such as boating, golfing, fishing and other fun-in-the-sun activities. Fishermen and those who live much of their lives on or near the water are more prone to cataracts, a clouding of the eye lens, as a result of the glare from the water.

Enter polarized lenses, which fishermen and boaters have been using for years, as they help to reduce the sun’s glare off the water. And there are several other benefits to polarized sunglasses: they allow more light to enter your eyes; improve colors and make details sharper; and, most importantly for those who worry about the later state of their eyes, block at least 99 percent of UVA and UVB rays, the ultraviolet light that can lead to cataracts. (Although less likely than UVB to cause sunburn, UVA penetrates the skin more deeply and is considered the chief culprit behind wrinkling, while UVB is considered the main cause of basal and squamous cell carcinomas as well as a significant cause of melanoma.)

So with polarized lenses becoming more popular, questions are arising on what that means for the average consumer. For instance, are all polarized sunglasses created equal? “An inferior pair of lenses will have fuzz around the lines of an image, whereas a superior pair does not,” Hendrix says. “In addition, higher quality polarized lenses also have an anti-reflective coating on the back of the lens.” Antireflective coating cuts down on glare and relieves eye strain.

Purchasing a pair of sunglasses may seem like a no-brainer, with inexpensive eyewear available in most retail stores and even gas stations. But unfortunately, some of these sunglasses emblazoned with “polarized” or “UV coverage” can leave you guessing. Although most sunglasses, regardless of the price, have some UV shield, Hendrix points out that the levels of UV absorption varies with certain lenses. Plastic lenses can only guard the eyes against 88 percent of UV light. Triacetate lenses only absorb 40 percent of UV rays, whereas polycarbonate lenses (generally only sold at optical stores) have 100 percent UV coverage.

Technical terms aside, does protecting yourself from the sun mean gaudy glasses with no style? “Absolutely not,” Hendrix says. “I think all glasses are very fashion-forward now with all the name brands available.” You can now protect your eyes while looking perfectly put together. Port City Eye Associates offers nine exclusive lines to Wilmington, including Salt Optics, a California-based company supplying stylish sunglasses with premium polarized protection.

A popular product for golfers and seafarers is Maui Jim, showcasing specs polarized for men and women in updated fashion. With saltwater safe frames and the same corrosion- and tarnish-resistant properties as pure titanium, these rimless lightweight lenses are available in unisex designs. Although men and women’s polarized sunglasses vary only on their style, what is good for an adult is not the best bet for a child. Sun damage occurs more often during childhood than during adulthood. Baby Banz, 100-percent UV protected polarized sunglasses with a velcro strap to keep them fastened to your child’s head, ensures the same UVA and UVB rays adults endure are not entering your child’s eyes. Hendrix uses these types of shades for his own children, including his 4-year-old and 18-month-old, whom he says never leave the house without their shades.

If purchasing polarized prescription sunglasses seems too costly for those with eye issues, wearing prescription contact lenses with UV protection along with polarized non-prescription lenses is a cost-effective option. Acuvue brand contact lenses offers the highest level of UV radiation-blocking protection in a contact lenses, absorbing a minimum of 90 percent UVA and 99 percent UVB rays. Contact lense prices vary on quantity and the option of purchasing daily, weekly or monthly disposable lenses. There are numerous websites such as 1800Contacts.com and VisionDirect.com, which offer price breaks, but all discount contact websites require a prescription from your optometrist. And most optometry offices will meet and even beat online prices.

Another option for eyeglass wearers wanting sun protection along with their prescription are Transitions lenses. The glasses let you keep up with only one pair of glasses whose lenses are clear indoors and at night, and automatically adjust their level of tint to changing light conditions outdoors. At the same time, they block 100 percent of UVA and UVB rays. (Transitions lenses, though, will not adjust while in a vehicle and will remain clear.)

Just as in your regular check-ups at your dentist or doctor, Hendrix encourages an annual eye exam. Eye issues that are ignored, like dry eye, could be a slight sunburn to the eye or white bumps on the inside of the eye could be pterygiums (pronounced te-rij-e-ums) resulting from chronic UV exposure, often found in farmers and fishermen. Others more susceptible to eye issues are those with lighter colored eyes.

With all the positives with polarization are they any negatives? “I do not want to be blamed for someone’s bad golf score,” Hendrix says. Polarization can disrupt a golfer’s ability to read greens while putting, so Hendrix advises selecting shades like amber or purple lenses.

“So only give me credit if your score decreases,” he says.

All rights reserved. This copyrighted material may not be re-published without permission. Links are encouraged.

Baby sun smarts Shade, protective clothing, sunblock key to protecting tender skin

Baby sun smarts

Shade, protective clothing, sunblock key to protecting tender skin

The Ottawa Citizen

Nine-month-old Gryffudd Carter is well-protected from the sun in a solarweave hat by Puffin Gear and a turquoise "rashie" by Banz.

Photograph by: Kirstin Endemann, The Ottawa Citizen

If your baby is under six months, nine months, or 15 years, the best sun protection you can give them is shade, says Dr. Cheryl Rosen.

"Truth of the matter is, until a child can walk you should be able to keep them completely out of the sun," says the national director of the Canadian Dermatology Association's sun protection program.

"As soon as they can walk, you have lost control forever." That's when covering them up and smearing on sunblock becomes important.

UPF-rated baby swimwear, called rashies after the rash vests worn by surfers, is a popular summer choice, but Rosen says a simple swimsuit worn with t-shirt, hat and sunblock can be sufficient, so long as the t-shirt is dark in colour and tightly woven.

And contrary to popular belief, Rosen says there is no reason to not put sunblock on children, even ones under the age of six months.

Rosen has tried unsuccessfully to find any clinical evidence sunblock actually harms a young child. Numerous trials have never shown any harmful impact from sunblock, though some of the chemicals are absorbed into the body, she says.

Concerned parents might want to choose sunblocks with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide as the active ingredient, as these stay on the skin.

"Out of the sun is best, but if you are taking them to the lake or for a stroll then cover them up and put some sunblock on their hands and face."

She's most concerned that studies show parents are good at caring for their baby's health for the first year, then "by the second year have slacked off completely. You have to keep going."

And teach by example.

"Parents are the role model -- and grandparents, too, as it is never too late," says Rosen.

"If they see you do it, it will become just what they do when they go into the sun."

© Copyright (c) Canwest News Service

The Scoop on UV Sun Protective Hats

Sun protection hats or UV protective hats, are your best chance to have UV protection against the sun's ultraviolet rays or ultraviolet radiation.

These sun hats which are also known as UV protective hats, not only protect your face but also your head and neck.

While you practice sun safety, you help in keeping your scalp, ears, face and neck from developing skin cancer.

Why do you need to wear a sun protective hat?

When you go out in the sun, your head and neck area are wide open to the damaging effects of the UV rays or UV radiation.

• Your skin alone can not protect you.

• A regular light hat can not protect you.

• A regular baseball cap can not protect you.

• A loosely woven straw hat can not protect you.

• UV sunglasses alone aren’t enough.

You need to wear a wide brimmed sun protection hat that is rated UPF 50 plus for maximum UV blockage.

What is an appropriate UPF rating?

Normally the sun protection fabrics are rated by the UPF number. UPF stands for Ultraviolet Protection Factor.

So the higher the UPF rating the higher the UV protection will be.

A UPF 50+ rating in sun hats and sun protective clothing, is the highest available - which translates into a 98% blockage of the sun's harmful UVA and UVB rays.

Which type is better?

For added sun protection and comfort consider the following,

• Lightweight and Breathable fabrics are better

• Widest brim with a full veil or drape in the back is better

• For reducing UV reflections, under brim dark color is better

• Elastic cord or adjustable headband is better

How do you measure your head before buying a Sun Protection Hat?

Simply use a cloth measuring tape which is flexible and won’t scratch your forehead. By going once around your head right above your ears will give you the circumference of your head.

Or

A long piece of unwaxed dental floss or thread and go around your head once and cut it. Then measure the cut piece flat using a measuring tape or a ruler.

Use the Merchant’s sizing chart accordingly and match your measurement to their hat size.

A Sun Protection Hat may be one size fits all, where you adjust it by the headband.

Sunburn Tips to Share with Kids

The weather is warming up, the days are longer and there’s more time to be outside doing all kinds of fun things! But if you're going to be out in the sun, especially on a hot day, you need to stay safe. Let's find out how.

Don't Feel the Burn

Even though the sun is hot, it does cool things. It keeps us warm. It makes flowers and plants grow. It even gives us vitamin D so we can better absorb calcium into our bodies for strong bones.

It does all these things by sending down light, which includes invisible ultraviolet (say: ul-trah-vye-uh-lut) rays. These are also sometimes called UV rays. Some ultraviolet rays pass through air and clouds and penetrate the skin. When your skin's been exposed to too many of these rays, you get what's known as a sunburn. Ouch!

Some people get a sunburn faster than others because of their coloring. If you have blond or red hair, light-colored skin, and light-colored eyes, you'll tend to get a sunburn more quickly than someone with dark eyes and skin. That's because you have less melanin (say: meh-luh-nun). Melanin is a chemical in the skin that protects the skin from sun damage by reflecting and absorbing UV rays. People with darker skin have more melanin, but even if you have dark hair, dark eyes, or darker-toned skin, you can still get a sunburn. It will just take a little bit longer.

Sunburns look bad and feel worse. They can cause blisters on your skin. They can keep you inside feeling sore when everyone else is outside having fun. They increase your chance of getting wrinkly when you get older. And worst of all, they can lead to skin cancer when you get older. Because getting wrinkles and getting sick don't happen right away, they can seem like things that could never happen to you. But you still need to be careful.

Prime Time

You don't need to hide from the sun completely or wrap up like a mummy to protect yourself. But you should take these two steps:

1. Always wear sunscreen.
2. Take frequent breaks from the sun by going indoors or moving into the shade.

These steps are especially important between 10:00 in the morning and 4:00 in the afternoon, when the sun's rays are strongest.

Use a sunscreen with an SPF rating of 15 or higher. Put on sunscreen 15 to 20 minutes before going out in the sun. If you are fair skinned, you should use a sunscreen with a higher SPF rating such as SPF 30. The letters SPF stand for sun protection factor, and the number rating tells you how much longer you can stay in the sun without getting sunburned. So if you normally burn after 20 minutes and you put on a sunscreen with an SPF rating of 15, this sunscreen may give you 15 times the protection. That's 15 times 20 minutes, or 300 minutes (5 hours).

But this isn’t always true, so reapply sunscreen at least every 2 hours, just to be safe. Do this more often if you've been swimming or sweating a lot - even if the sunscreen is waterproof. And remember that you can get sunburned more quickly when you're swimming or boating because the reflection from the water intensifies the sun's rays.

Be sure to put sunscreen all over your body. This includes some places you might not think of, like the tops of your ears, the back of your neck, the part in your hair, your face, and the tops of your feet. If you want to block the sun's rays, wear clothing that you can't see your hand through. You may still get burned through sheerer fabrics. Wear a fun hat to block your face from the sun.

Don't forget that your eyes need protection from ultraviolet rays, too. Always wear sunglasses in the bright sun, and make sure they have a label saying that they block UV rays.

Drink Up!

Drinking water is an important part of staying healthy, especially when it's hot outside. When you're sweating, you lose water that your body needs to work properly. And if you're playing a sport or running around in the sun, you lose even more water, because you sweat that much more.

So drink up and don't wait until you're thirsty - drinking before you feel thirsty helps keep the water level in your body from dropping too low when it's hot or you're sweating a lot with exercise. If you forget and suddenly feel thirsty, start drinking then. There are lots of cool-looking water bottles around, so get one you really like, fill it up, and drink up!

Got That Hot Feeling?

If you're out in the hot sun, or you're exercising on a hot day, it's easy to get heat exhaustion. Kids get heat exhaustion when their bodies can't cool themselves fast enough. A kid with heat exhaustion might feel overheated, tired, and weak.

Heat exhaustion can come on suddenly. A person may just collapse when playing soccer or tennis, for example. It can leave a person feeling really tired for days after it happens.

Heat stroke is a more serious heat-related illness and can cause a person to stop sweating, to have red, hot skin, and to have a high temperature. The person might become uncoordinated, confused, or even lose consciousness. It requires emergency medical attention.

Be sure to tell an adult if you're hot and you have a headache or feel dizzy or nauseous (like you're going to throw up). The grown-up will want to get you out of the sun, give you liquids to drink, and take you to a doctor, if necessary.

The good news is that the sun doesn't have to be your enemy if you wear your sunscreen, drink your water, and take breaks when you start to feel too hot. And don't forget your sunglasses. Not only do they protect your eyes from the sun, they make you look so cool!

Updated and reviewed by: Kate Cronan, MD
Date reviewed: August 2007

It's Sun Safety Week!!

This week is National Sun Safety Week! Promote sun safety and skin cancer prevention to your friends, colleagues and loved ones today and every day!

The Sun Safety Alliance provides great resources to help you block the sun, but not the fun!

Activities for Infants & Toddlers


Activities for Preschoolers


Activities for K-2nd grade


Activities for 3rd-5th grade


Activities for Middle School and High School


Did You Know...
- Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States; More than one million skin cancers are diagnosed annually.
- It is estimated that one American dies every hour from skin cancer.
- Each year there are more new cases of skin cancer than the combined incidence of cancers of the breast, prostate, lung and colon.
- One in five Americans will develop skin cancer in the course of a lifetime.

Visit us at http://usa.babybanz.com for even more sun safety tips!

Know Your Sunscreens!

Know your sunscreen: physical blocks and chemical blocks protect your skin in different ways.

When those first rays of warm summer sun hit our skin--before the muggy humidity kicks in--it's hard to resist soaking it up for hours. But basking can quickly become baking, and the next thing you're dealing with is sunburn, wrinkles, or an increased risk of several skin cancers.

Cover your skin The best way to guard your skin is to shield it from the sun.

* Wear wide-brimmed hats, sunglasses, and sun-protective clothing. When you swim, wear a wetsuit, advises Alan Dattner, M.D., a holistic dermatologist in New York. And, if possible, stay out of the midday sun.

* Eat more brightly colored fruits and vegetables and drink green tea. High in antioxidants, they can help your skin repair sun damage and fight potentially cancer-causing free radicals, says Dattner.

* Apply an effective sunscreen. Whenever your skin is exposed, slather on a lotion high in SPF.

Read labels

Not all sunscreens are alike. It helps to understand the ingredients and know which rays they'll protect you from.

PHYSICAL BLOCKERS Minerals like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide are used in physical blocks, which provide the most comprehensive coverage: They sit on top of your skin and reflect the rays of the sun, shielding what's underneath, explains Kenneth Beer, M.D., a dermatologist in West Palm Beach, Fla.

CHEMICAL BLOCKERS Ingredients used in chemical blocks soak into your skin (instead of sitting on the surface) and help prevent damage by breaking down harmful ultraviolet rays.

WHAT SPF MEANS Sun Protection Factor indicates how much shelter you'll get from the sun's damaging rays. To find out how long a sunscreen will shade you, multiply its SPF by the amount of time your unprotected skin can spend in the sun without burning (for most people, this is between ten and 20 minutes, depending on skin type). If you burn after ten minutes, an SPF of 15 will shield your skin for 150 minutes.

WHAT UVA RAYS CAUSE

Ultraviolet A (UVA) rays can cause premature aging, such as wrinkles, and may even cause some skin cancers.

WHAT UVB RAYS CAUSE

Ultraviolet B (UVB) rays are more potent, quicker to produce sunburn, and are a major cause of skin cancer. Because UVB rays cause sunburn, SPF always refers only to UVB protection. To defend yourself from both UVA and UVB rays, look for a physical block or a full-spectrum chemical block.

Slather all over

When applying sunscreen, don't forget your ears, neck, and the backs of your legs--places people often overlook. When you put it on your face, start at the outside and move in, suggests Doris Day, M.D., a dermatologist in New York. "Most people miss the edges of their face, so starting there will help make sure every part is covered."

Physical blocks, which use ingredients like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide to protect against both UVA and UVB rays, are effective immediately--no need to wait before going outside.

What's your sun safety IQ?

What's Your Sun-Safety IQ?
Sun safety is not just for vacation. Are you sun-safe every day? Take the American Cancer Society's 9-question quiz and find out.

Choosing Children's Sunglasses

Choosing sunglasses for your kids

Did you ever notice how cute kids are in sunglasses? Like those "fashion statement" sunglasses with a cool super-hero look or trimmed in teddy bear faces?

More importantly, sunglasses may save their skin and eyes later in life by blocking the sun's powerful ultraviolet rays (UVR).

Children under age 10 are at a high risk for skin and eye damage from UVR. The skin on their eyelids and around their eyes is more delicate and vulnerable than adult skin. "And until about age 10, the lens of a child's eye is clear, allowing greater solar penetration and thus greater UVR-induced ocular changes," explains Adelaide A. Hebert, MD, professor and vice chair of dermatology, University of Houston. "After that, the lens starts to become more opaque, providing better protection."

UVR exposure causes 90 percent of all skin cancers. In addition, retinal exposure to UVR is associated with cataracts and macular degeneration, both causes of vision impairment. UVR damage builds over time, so the sooner you start protecting your children's eyes from the sun, the lower their risk will be of ever developing future eye problems.

Fortunately, good sunglasses protect both the skin around the eye and the eye itself. While children under 6 months old should never be exposed to the sun, once they reach 6 months, they should wear sunglasses outside. If they require prescription glasses, they should also wear prescription sunglasses.

Keep these rules in mind when buying sunglasses for children:

* Find glasses that block 99-100 percent of both UVA and UVB rays. Buy ones that indicate the percentage of UVR protection they provide. The more skin covered, the better, so look for large, wraparound styles.
* Use playground-proof lenses. Kids run, trip, fall, and bounce off objects at alarming speed. Their sunglasses should match this active lifestyle. Find impact-resistant, scratch-proof lenses that don't pop out of the frames. Avoid glass lenses, unless recommended by a doctor; plastic is safer. Frames should be bendable but unbreakable. Make sure the glasses fit snugly, close to the face.
* Let them choose. You're not the one who has to wear the glasses or hear other kids' comments on them. Children – especially older kids and teens – are likelier to actually wear them if they select them themselves.
* Eyeball the glasses. Check to see that lenses are not scratched or warped and have no other flaws that distort vision. Very young children may not know to complain if the glasses are flawed, so it's up to you to check before buying.
* Double Up. Sunglasses block only rays that come directly through the lenses. The skin around the eyes remains vulnerable to rays entering though the sides or from the top, or reflected upwards off snow, sand, water, etc. Wearing a wide-brimmed hat is a good backup, blocking out many rays from above and even from the sides, while also shielding the face and neck. Seeking shade during the sun's most intense hours, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., provides another level of protection.

"We need to teach children early the importance of wearing sunglasses – just as we teach them to brush their teeth and wear a seatbelt, so that they develop good habits that last for life," concludes Dr. Hebert.

source: Skin Cancer Foundation http://www.skincancer.org/choosing-sunglasses-for-your-kids.html

May is Skin Cancer Awareness Month!!

May is Skin Cancer Awareness Month

Baby Banz encourages sun safety while in the sun

With spring here and summer on the way, it means more people will venture outside to play and work. Swimming, planting flowers, mowing the grass, back yard barbecues and other activities take place during the spring and summer months.

While the warmth and sun bring people outside, Baby Banz and the American Cancer Society encourage everyone to take caution and to protect their skin.

May is skin cancer awareness month. It’s a month used to encourage and remind people to take preventive measures while they enjoy various outdoor activities.

Skin cancer is the most common of all cancers. This type of cancer can almost completely be avoided if people would protect their skin and follow simple guidelines when they are outside.

There are more than 1 million skin cancers diagnosed each year in the United States. That’s more than cancers of the prostate, breast, lung, colon, uterus, ovaries and pancreas combined. And the number of skin cancers has been on the rise for the past few decades.

The vast majority of skin cancers are due to unprotected ultraviolet radiation (UV) exposure. Most of this radiation comes from sunlight, but some may come from artificial sources, such as tanning booths. The amount of UV exposure depends on the strength of the light, the length of exposure and whether the skin is protected.

The American Cancer Society encourages people to enjoy the numerous outdoor activities, but they want them to be sun smart and to follow some easy tips to reduce the risk of skin cancer.

Limit Direct Sun Exposure during Midday
UV rays are most intense during the middle of the day, usually between the hours of 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. If you are unsure about the sun's intensity, take the shadow test. If your shadow is shorter than you, the sun's rays are the strongest. If you plan to be outdoors, you may want to check the UV Index in the area.

Cover Up
When in the sun, wear clothing to protect as much skin as possible. Clothes provide different levels of protection, depending on many factors. Long-sleeved shirts, long pants, or long skirts are the most protective. Dark colors generally provide more protection than light colors. A tightly woven fabric protects better than loosely woven clothing. Dry fabric is generally more protective than wet fabric. If you can see light through a fabric, UV rays can get through too. Be aware that covering up doesn’t block out all UV rays. A typical light T-shirt worn in the summer usually provides less protection than a sunscreen with a Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of 15 or higher.

Use a Sunscreen with a Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of 15 or Higher
A sunscreen is a product that you apply to the skin for protection against the sun's UV rays. Sunscreens are available as lotions, creams, ointments, gels and wax sticks. The American Cancer Society recommends products with an SPF of at least 15. The SPF number represents the level of protection against UVB rays provided by the sunscreen -- a higher number means more protection.

Be sure to apply the sunscreen properly. Always follow the label directions. Most recommend applying sunscreen generously to dry skin 20 to 30 minutes before going outside so the chemicals have time to absorb into your skin. When applying, pay close attention to your face, ears, hands and arms. Coat the skin that is not covered by clothing.

Be generous. About 1 ounce of sunscreen (a "palmful") should be used to cover the arms, legs, neck and face of the average adult. For best results, most sunscreens must be reapplied at least every 2 hours and even more often if you are swimming or sweating.

If you or your child burn easily, be extra careful to cover up, limit exposure and apply sunscreen. Do not use sunscreens on babies younger than 6 months. Instead, use hats, clothing and shading to protect small babies from the sun.

Wear a Hat
A hat with at least a 2 to 3 inch brim all around is ideal because it protects areas often exposed to the sun, such as the neck, ears, eyes, forehead, nose and scalp. A shade cap, which looks like a baseball cap with about 7 inches of fabric draping down the sides and back, also is good. These are often sold in sports and outdoor supply stores. A baseball cap can protect the front and top of the head but not the back of the neck or the ears, where skin cancers commonly develop.

Wear Sunglasses That Block UV Rays
Research has shown that long hours in the sun without eye protection increases the chances of developing eye disease. UV-blocking sunglasses can help protect your eyes from sun damage. The ideal sunglasses do not have to be expensive, but they should block 99% to 100% of UVA and UVB radiation.

Avoid Tanning Beds and Sunlamps
Many people believe that the UV rays of tanning beds are harmless. This is not true. Tanning lamps give out UVA and frequently UVB rays as well. Both UVA and UVB rays can cause serious long-term skin damage. Both contribute to skin cancer. Because of these dangers, the American Cancer Society advises people to avoid sunlamps and tanning beds.