Friday, September 26, 2014
Flashback Friday: Baby Banz on CNN
Our first news feature right after Bevan invented the Original Baby BanZ wrap-around sunglasses for babies and kids! BanZ is excited to be able to celebrate 14 years protecting babies around the world!!
Wednesday, March 19, 2014
Banz Hearing Protection
Finally!
Kids hearing protection!You now have a solution to providing hearing
protection for children with sensitive hearing and kids that need
hearing protection. The Banz hearing protectors effectively attenuate
harmful loud noises without shutting out other ambient sounds. The
earmuffs are easy to wear, with a low profile and no protruding parts
that can catch on things. The wide, foam-filled cushions ensure that the
set doesn't squeeze uncomfortably, and there is plenty of space for the
ears inside the shells. Banz earmuffs have a comfy leather cover over
the headband to ensure all over comfort!! The weight is also important
to comfort; each ear muff weighs just 190 grams.
They are perfect for all sorts of activities including:
- helping out to mow the yard or with workshop projects
- going to sporting events, car races or air shows
- water skiing, boating and other water sports
- music concerts or band rehearsals
- watching shooting or gun competitions and hunting
-
calming young children in noisy environments
-
SNR 26dB NRR 31dB
Tuesday, September 18, 2012
Blue Ivy loves her BanZ!
Blue Ivy, daughter of JayZ and Beyonce. She's rocking BanZ Pacific Blue Hearing Protection! You now have a solution to providing hearing protection for children with sensitive hearing and those little ones that just need a little hearing protection. The Banz hearing protectors effectively attenuate harmful loud noises without shutting out other ambient sounds. The earmuffs are easy to wear, with a low profile and no protruding parts that can catch on things. The wide, foam-filled cushions ensure that the set doesn't squeeze uncomfortably, and there is plenty of space for the ears inside the shells. Banz earmuffs have a comfy leather cover over the headband to ensure all over comfort!! The weight is also important to comfort; each ear muff weighs just 190 grams.
Price: $30.00
Visit www.usa.babybanz.com to purchase and visit http://www.chicexecsmedia.com for samples or for a feature!
Wednesday, March 14, 2012
Spring Sun Safety Tips
More than 1 million new cases of skin cancer are diagnosed each year in the United States and over 10,000 people will die from the disease each year. This number hits even closer to home when you consider that almost one in five Americans is expected to develop some type of skin cancer in his or her lifetime, according to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), so you should start sun protection even in spring.
Preventing skin disorders and diseases is easier than you think, it just takes a little bit of careful tips, and these effective protection tips can keep your skin healthy and moist.
Tip 1: Limit time in the sun, especially between 10am and 3pm. The sunburn during this time is the strongest. You’d better avoid going out during this peak Spring Break hours. Sun rays are stronger at higher elevations (mountains) and lower latitudes (near the equator).
Tip 2: Wear protective clothing. Loose-fitting long-sleeved shirts and long pants made from tightly woven fabric offer the best protection from the sun’s UV rays. A wet T-shirt offers much less UV protection than a dry one. Darker colors may offer more protection than lighter colors. Notice that a standard T-shirt only provides SPF protection of 5 to 8. A broad-brimmed hat is essential for spring and also adds charms to romantic you.
Tip 3: Take along a few pairs of sunglasses with UVA and UVB protection. Anti-UV sunglasses can provide almost 100% protections against ultraviolet radiation entering the eyes, and then can protect the tender skin around your eyes.
Tip 4: Using a protective sunscreen to minimize the penetration of UV rays is general but really useful! And Sunscreens should be applied 15 to 30 minutes before exposure followed by one reapplication 15 to 30 minutes after the sun exposure begins. You can reapply every two hours, especially during exercise or swimming. A sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or more is quite important to those who spend much time outdoors, and is especially necessary to those who have sensitive skin, which will be burn easily. By the way, don’t forget your lips and ears!
Remember that the skin is the largest organ in your body and is your first defense against harmful pathogens. Care the nature of your skin in spring —a best season to enjoy the nature. You will be gorgeous as well as fresh outside in whatever season!
Preventing skin disorders and diseases is easier than you think, it just takes a little bit of careful tips, and these effective protection tips can keep your skin healthy and moist.
Tip 1: Limit time in the sun, especially between 10am and 3pm. The sunburn during this time is the strongest. You’d better avoid going out during this peak Spring Break hours. Sun rays are stronger at higher elevations (mountains) and lower latitudes (near the equator).
Tip 2: Wear protective clothing. Loose-fitting long-sleeved shirts and long pants made from tightly woven fabric offer the best protection from the sun’s UV rays. A wet T-shirt offers much less UV protection than a dry one. Darker colors may offer more protection than lighter colors. Notice that a standard T-shirt only provides SPF protection of 5 to 8. A broad-brimmed hat is essential for spring and also adds charms to romantic you.
Tip 3: Take along a few pairs of sunglasses with UVA and UVB protection. Anti-UV sunglasses can provide almost 100% protections against ultraviolet radiation entering the eyes, and then can protect the tender skin around your eyes.
Tip 4: Using a protective sunscreen to minimize the penetration of UV rays is general but really useful! And Sunscreens should be applied 15 to 30 minutes before exposure followed by one reapplication 15 to 30 minutes after the sun exposure begins. You can reapply every two hours, especially during exercise or swimming. A sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or more is quite important to those who spend much time outdoors, and is especially necessary to those who have sensitive skin, which will be burn easily. By the way, don’t forget your lips and ears!
Remember that the skin is the largest organ in your body and is your first defense against harmful pathogens. Care the nature of your skin in spring —a best season to enjoy the nature. You will be gorgeous as well as fresh outside in whatever season!
Tuesday, November 29, 2011
Hearing and Safety Rules for Children
Hearing loss is the most common congenital condition in the country, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics. About 33 babies are born daily with a degree of hearing loss. But, hearing loss may also result from factors such as noise levels or severe ear infections. Hearing plays a significant role in skills such as language development and academic learning. It's essential to ensure your child's hearing is OK early on and to protect it as she grows.Get a Hearing Test
All newborns should have their hearing tested before they leave the hospital, recommends the AAP. Children with hearing loss rarely have risk factors, so routine early screening takes the guesswork out of whether parents should or should not have their children tested. If your child hasn't had a hearing exam yet, schedule an appointment for him with your doctor or pediatrician as soon as possible. Early intervention---such as speech-language development programs---can improve your child's learning and communication skills.
Reduce Noise
Children may experience noise-induced hearing loss or NIHL when exposed to a loud sound or to one that lasts too long---which damages the tiny sensory cells in the inner ear, explains National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders or NIDCD. It's worse if the sound is too close, which is why health professionals recommend keeping low volumes on radios, TV or headphones. Don't expose your child to loud noises at home, such as drills or lawnmowers. Encourage your child to listen to his mobile audio device at a low volume. Let your child wear hearing protectors if he'll be in a loud environment for a prolonged period.
Watch for Warning Signs
Hearing loss occurs gradually and often goes unnoticed. It's not unusual to miss the signs until advanced or permanent hearing loss occurs, warns the Centers for Disease Control. Symptoms your child may exhibit include constantly asking people to repeat information, listening to the television too loudly, or an inability to hear distant sounds such as birds singing, doorbells, or the telephone. Your child may also look at to read your lips when you're speaking, or start to avoid social situations.
Treat Ear Infections Effectively
About 75 percent of children will have an ear infection or otitis media by the time they're three, according to the NIDCD. When fluid accumulates behind the eardrum, bacteria grow leading to inflammation of the middle ear. Ear infections often develop after your child has a cold or sore throat, the NIDCD explains. Poorly treated or repeated ear infections can cause hearing loss. Seek medical attention as soon as possible.
References
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Monday, October 31, 2011
Summer Tips to beat the heat!
· Most people don’t put on enough sunscreen. Doctors say that to be fully covered, you need to apply the equivalent of a shot glass full of lotion to your body.
· You need to reapply sunscreen every 90 minutes to 2 hours
· Make sure your sunscreen is “broad-spectrum” and protects against both UVB and UVA rays.
· Choose an SPF of at least 30. Doctors say that anything over SPF 50 doesn’t really mean anything.
· New guidelines will no longer allow sunscreens to claim they are “water proof” or “sweat proof.” They can claim they are “water-resistant” but even so, doctors and scientists say, you still need to apply every 90 minutes to 2 hrs.
Drink water! It’s very easy to become dehydrated in hot weather, and children are very susceptible to water loss. Although they may ask for soda or juice, make sure they (and you) are mostly drinking water. Sugary drinks, whether natural or artificial, are simply not as effective at hydration (and they add unnecessary calories).
Warning signs of dehydration include:
· Feeling dizzy
· Having a dry or sticky mouth
· Producing less or darker urine
If you notice any of these signs in yourself or in your children, get somewhere cool as quickly as possible and drink cool water.
Tuesday, August 30, 2011
Q&A: FDA puts new regulations on Sunscreen in the USA - what you need to know
Questions and Answers: FDA announces new requirements for over-the-counter (OTC) sunscreen products marketed in the U.S.
[updated 6/23/2011]On June 14, 2011 the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced new requirements for sunscreens currently sold over-the-counter (OTC) (i.e. non-prescription). These requirements support the Agency's ongoing efforts to ensure that sunscreens meet modern-day standards for safety and effectiveness. The new requirements, as well as several proposed changes for future rules, are outlined in four regulatory documents that include a Final Rule, a Proposed Rule, an Advance Notice of Proposed Rulemaking, and a Draft Guidance for Industry.
The following questions and answers provide a brief overview of the recent regulatory actions and highlight the most important information for consumers to know when buying and using sunscreen products.
Q1. Why is FDA making changes to how sunscreens are marketed in the United States?
Q2. When will these changes take effect?
Q3. What does the SPF value on sunscreen labels indicate?
Q4. Does FDA believe sunscreens are still safe and effective? Do consumers need to throw away the sunscreens they are currently using?
Q5. What do consumers most need to know when buying and using sunscreens?
Q6. What are the main points of the new Final Rule?
Q7. Does the Final Rule apply to cosmetics and moisturizers containing sunscreen?
Q8. What does the Proposed Rule address?
Q9. What is the purpose of the Advance Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (ANPR)?
Q10. Why is the Advance Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (ANPR) requesting additional data on sunscreen products in the form of sprays?
Q11. What is included in the Draft Guidance for Industry?
Q12. Why isn't FDA finalizing all the proposed sunscreen changes under one rule?
Q13. Where can I find more information on these various regulatory actions?
Q14. Where can I find more information on sunscreen use?
Q1. Why is FDA making changes to how sunscreens are marketed in the United States?
A. FDA is making changes to how sunscreens are marketed in the United States as part of the Agency's ongoing efforts to ensure that sunscreens meet modern-day standards for safety and effectiveness and to help consumers have the information they need so they can choose the right sun protection for themselves and their families. Prior rules on sunscreens dealt almost exclusively with protection against sunburn, which is primarily caused by ultraviolet B (UVB) radiation from the sun, and did not address ultraviolet A (UVA) radiation, which contributes to skin cancer and early skin aging. After reviewing the latest science, FDA determined that sufficient data are available to establish a "broad spectrum" test for determining a sunscreen product's UVA protection. Passing the broad spectrum test shows that the product provides UVA protection that is proportional to its UVB protection.
Sunscreen products that pass the broad spectrum test are allowed to be labeled as "Broad Spectrum." These "Broad Spectrum" sunscreens protect against both UVA and UVB rays. Scientific data demonstrated that products that are "Broad Spectrum SPF 15 [or higher]" have been shown to reduce the risk of skin cancer and early skin aging when used with other sun protection measures, in addition to helping prevent sunburn. Other sun protection measures include limiting time in the sun and wearing protective clothing.
These testing and labeling requirements are necessary to provide consumers with the information they need to make informed choices when selecting sunscreens.
Q2. When will these changes take effect?
A. The Final Rule will take effect by the summer of 2012, but consumers may begin to see changes to sunscreen labels before the effective date.
Q3. What does the SPF value on sunscreen labels indicate?
A. The SPF value indicates the level of sunburn protection provided by the sunscreen product. All sunscreens must be tested according to an SPF test procedure. The test measures the amount of ultraviolet (UV) radiation exposure it takes to cause sunburn when a person is using a sunscreen in comparison to how much UV exposure it takes to cause a sunburn when they do not use a sunscreen. The product is then labeled with the appropriate SPF value indicating the amount of sunburn protection provided by the product. Higher SPF values (up to 50) provide greater sunburn protection. Because SPF values are determined from a test that measures protection against sunburn caused by ultraviolet B (UVB) radiation, SPF values only indicate a sunscreen's UVB protection.
However, sunscreens that pass the new broad spectrum test will have demonstrated that they also provide ultraviolet A (UVA) protection that is proportional to their UVB protection. To pass the broad spectrum test, sunscreens with higher SPF values will provide higher levels of UVA protection as well. Therefore, under the new label requirements, a higher SPF value for sunscreens labeled "Broad Spectrum SPF [value]" will indicate a higher level of protection from both UVA and UVB radiation.
Q4. Does FDA believe sunscreens are still safe and effective? Do consumers need to throw away the sunscreens they are currently using?
A. The ingredients in FDA-approved sunscreens marketed today have been used for many years, and FDA has no reason to believe these products are not safe and effective when used as directed. Therefore, FDA is not advising consumers to throw away their current sunscreen products.
Sunscreens on the shelf today may have varying levels of ultraviolet A (UVA) radiation protection, but by next year, sunscreens that claim to provide UVA protection, otherwise known as broad spectrum protection, will be required to pass FDA's standardized test. This broad spectrum test will enable consumers to determine the level of UVA protection a sunscreen provides in addition to its ultraviolet B (UVB) radiation protection. This information will allow them to better manage their skin cancer and early skin aging risks. FDA does not want consumers to stop using currently marketed sunscreens in the meantime, as these products still offer sun protection.
It is also important to note that FDA is not questioning the safety of any ingredients used in marketed sunscreens. FDA believes the risk of not using sunscreen is much greater than any potential risk posed by sunscreen ingredients.
Q5. What do consumers most need to know when buying and using sunscreens?
A. Spending time in the sun increases a person's risk of skin cancer and early skin aging.To reduce these risks, consumers should regularly use a Broad Spectrum sunscreen with an SPF value of 15 or higher in combination with other protective measures such as:
- Limiting time in the sun, especially between the hours of 10 AM and 2 PM when the sun's rays are the strongest.
- Wearing clothing to cover skin exposed to the sun (long-sleeved shirts, pants, sunglasses, and broad-brimmed hats) when possible.
- Using a water resistant sunscreen if swimming or sweating.
- Reapplying sunscreen, even if it is labeled as water resistant, at least every 2 hours. (Water resistant sunscreens should be reapplied more often after swimming or sweating, according to the directions on the label.)
Q6. What are the main points of the new Final Rule?
A. The new final rule includes the following requirements:
- Broad Spectrum designation. Sunscreens that pass FDA's broad spectrum test procedure, which measures a product's ultraviolet A (UVA) protection relative to its ultraviolet B (UVB) protection, may be labeled as "Broad Spectrum SPF [value]" on the front label. For Broad Spectrum sunscreens, SPF values also indicate the amount or magnitude of overall protection. Broad Spectrum SPF products with SPF values higher than 15 provide greater protection and may claim additional uses, as described in the next bullet.
- Use claims. Only Broad Spectrum sunscreens with an SPF value of 15 or higher can claim to reduce the risk of skin cancer and early skin aging if used as directed with other sun protection measures. Non-Broad Spectrum sunscreens and Broad Spectrum sunscreens with an SPF value between 2 and 14 can only claim to help prevent sunburn.
- "Waterproof," "sweatproof" or "sunblock" claims. Manufacturers cannot label sunscreens as "waterproof" or "sweatproof," or identify their products as "sunblocks," because these claims overstate their effectiveness. Sunscreens also cannot claim to provide sun protection for more than 2 hours without reapplication or to provide protection immediately after application (for example-- "instant protection") without submitting data to support these claims and obtaining FDA approval.
- Water resistance claims. Water resistance claims on the front label must indicate whether the sunscreen remains effective for 40 minutes or 80 minutes while swimming or sweating, based on standard testing. Sunscreens that are not water resistant must include a direction instructing consumers to use a water resistant sunscreen if swimming or sweating.
- Drug Facts. All sunscreens must include standard "Drug Facts" information on the back and/or side of the container.
Q7. Does the Final Rule apply to cosmetics and moisturizers containing sunscreen?
A. Yes. All products that claim to provide Broad Spectrum SPF protection are regulated as sunscreen drug products. Therefore, the regulations FDA has developed for OTC sunscreen drug products apply to cosmetics and moisturizers labeled with SPF values.
Q8. What does the Proposed Rule address?
A. The proposed rule, if finalized, would limit the maximum SPF value on sunscreen labels to "50 +" because there is not sufficient data to show that products with SPF values higher than 50 provide greater protection for users than products with SPF values of 50.
The proposed regulation is available for public comment at regulations.gov until September 15, 2011.
Q9. What is the purpose of the Advance Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (ANPR)?
A. The Advance Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (ANPR) allows the public a period of time to comment on regulations FDA may pursue as part of future rulemaking. In developing regulations for over-the-counter (OTC) sunscreens, FDA has not previously specified to which dosage forms the regulations would apply. Therefore, FDA is requesting additional data relating to sunscreen products in specific dosage forms to further our understanding of how dosage forms affect the safety and effectiveness of sunscreen products. For example, the ANPR invites public comment on possible directions for use of and warnings for sunscreen sprays, as well as supporting data or information for sprays and other sunscreen dosage forms including lotions, oils, sticks, gels, butters, ointments, creams, and pastes. The ANPR also explains how interested parties can supply information for FDA to consider other dosage forms, including powders, towelettes, body washes, and shampoos.
Q10. Why is the Advance Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (ANPR) requesting additional data on sunscreen products in the form of sprays?
A. Currently, the record (data and information) about sunscreens in spray dosage forms is not comparable to that for sunscreens in other dosage forms such as oils, creams, and lotions. The manner of application differs significantly between sprays and these other dosage forms. Therefore, we are requesting additional data to address questions of effectiveness and safety that arise from differences in the manner of application.
Q11. What is included in the Draft Guidance for Industry?
A. The Draft Guidance for Industry, entitled "Enforcement Policy – OTC Sunscreen Drug Products Marketed Without an Approved Application (PDF - 83KB)," is an enforcement guidance that includes information to help sunscreen product manufacturers understand how to label and test their products in light of the new Final Rule, the Proposed Rule, and the Advance Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (ANPR).
Q12. Why isn't FDA finalizing all the proposed sunscreen changes under one rule?
A. FDA is finalizing those changes that are based on proposals it made in earlier stages of rulemaking, including a 2007 proposed rule, on which it already received public comment. Those comments also helped to inform the Agency's thinking about additional aspects of sunscreen regulation, which in turn gave rise to the Proposed Rule and Advance Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (ANPR). The regulatory process requires FDA to give public notice and opportunity for comment before finalizing additional changes, which also gives the public and FDA an opportunity to further develop the record (data and information) on safety and effectiveness.
Q13. Where can I find more information on these various regulatory actions?
A. On June 17, 2011, FDA published the new sunscreen Final Rule (PDF - 485KB), the Proposed Rule (PDF - 197KB), the Advance Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (ANPR) (PDF - 187KB) and the notice of availability of the Draft Guidance for Industry (PDF - 217KB) in the Federal Register. The draft guidance entitled "Enforcement Policy – OTC Sunscreen Drug Products Marketed Without an Approved Application" (PDF - 83KB), is also available.
Q14. Where can I find more information on sunscreen use?
A. Additional information about FDA's changes to sunscreen regulations can be found at www.fda.gov/sunscreen. At this link, consumers can see what new sunscreen labels will look like, what types of sun protection various sunscreens will provide, and how to use sunscreens safely and effectively.
In addition, FDA responded to common questions about the new sunscreen regulations submitted by the WebMD community via Twitter and Facebook. These questions and FDA's responses can be found at WebMD Newsroom: FDA's New Sunscreen Rules - FAQ.
Friday, August 19, 2011
Are tanning salons safe?
My 17-year-old daughter wants to go tanning at a tanning salon. She says all her friends are doing it. Is this safe?
- Anjali
Even though tanning seems to be all the rage with teens, it's best for them to stay out of tanning salons. Though tanning booths mostly use UVA rays that are less likely to burn skin, don't be fooled. These UVA rays are involved in the development of skin damage that can lead to skin cancer. UVA rays have a longer wavelength and penetrate to the deeper layers of the skin, so they're also responsible for premature wrinkling of the skin.
If your daughter is set on getting a few shades darker, suggest sunless tanners that can be bought in any drugstore. Also, make sure she applies plenty of sunscreen before hitting the beach or spending time outdoors.
Reviewed by: Larissa Hirsch, MD
Date reviewed: April 2009
Tuesday, August 2, 2011
The Medical Minute: Protecting kids' eyes from the sun
The Medical Minute: Protecting kids' eyes from the sun
Tuesday, August 2, 2011By Marianne E. Boltz
It’s summer vacation time! Moms and Dads everywhere are busily shopping for that highly anticipated week at the beach or campground. What one item is on most everyone’s list? Sunscreen. We all know the importance protecting children’s delicate skin from the sun’s harmful ultraviolet rays. But what many parents forget are the short- and long-term effects of the sun on children’s developing eyes. Even the most diligent mom or dad who may remember to pack sunglasses for the kids at the beach all too often forget about the other 51 weeks of the year when their kids are outside playing. A staggering statistic: the World Health Organization reports that about 80 percent of exposure to UV light occurs before age 18.
Long-term exposure to UV radiation can be serious. Research has shown that exposure to small amounts of UV radiation over a period of many years increases the chance of developing cataracts and may cause damage to the retina, the nerve-rich lining of the eye that is responsible for our sharp vision. Long-term exposure to the blue and violet portion of the solar spectrum has been implicated as a risk factor for macular degeneration, especially for individuals who are “sun sensitive” with pale complexions. Chronic UV exposure can also cause skin cancer of the eyelids and skin around the eyes. A more immediate type of sun damage to the eye is photokeratitis, a painful burn of the eye's surface causing symptoms such as red eyes, a foreign body sensation or gritty feeling in the eyes, extreme sensitivity to light and excessive tearing.
In addition to having children wear a hat or cap with a wide brim while outdoors, there are several things to keep in mind when discussing sun protection for children. Polycarbonate lens material always is a good idea for prescription or nonprescription sunglasses, as it is considered a “safety” material, particularly important for active children. Photochromic or Transitions lenses, those that darken when outdoors, can be an especially convenient and effective option for children who normally wear glasses on a full-time basis. Lastly, it is never too soon to start having children wear sun protection: infants and toddlers are particularly sensitive to bright light and the damaging rays of the sun. In general, parents of infants 6 months and younger should not expose them to direct sunlight. Children age 6 to 36 months should wear infant or toddler-sized sunglasses such as Baby Banz, which are available in specialty optical shops or online. These have a comfortable, wrap-around neoprene band attached to the front frame and lenses which provides a secure fit for an infant’s small facial features and head.
The American Optometric Association offers the following recommendations when purchasing sunglasses for children or adults:
-- Don’t be misled by faulty UV claims or labeling. Buy sunglasses where there is equipment available to check the lenses’ UV protection capabilities. Price alone cannot guarantee quality UV protection.
-- Check lenses to be sure the tint is uniform, not darker in one area than another and free of distortions.
-- Be sure the lenses block enough light. If you can see your eyes easily through the lenses, they probably are not dark enough.
-- At a minimum, look for sunglasses that block at least 99 percent of both UV-A and UV-B radiation, screen out 75 percent to 90 percent of visible light, and are gray for proper color recognition.
-- If possible, choose a wrap-around sunglass frame -- these provide added side protection from bright light and UV radiation.
The old saying holds true: “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.” Your children will thank you in years to come for protecting such an amazing gift as their eyes and vision. And, really, what’s one more thing to add to your shopping list? Enjoy your summer vacation!
Marianne E. Boltz, O.D., FAAO, is a pediatric optometrist and assistant professor of ophthalmology at Penn State Hershey Eye Center.
Tuesday, June 14, 2011
Baby Banz launches Sun Screen for Kids
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Thanks Dad Giveaway Winner Announced
Thanks Dad Giveaway Winner!
An alternate winner has been chosen since the first did not respond - the alternate winner is:
- i would pick the junior banz in groovy pink size 4-10 and the beach tee in light pink size XS
- June 4, 2011 9:16 AM
As always, we have utilized Random.org to choose a winner for our monthly contest. The winner is comment #50 -
- I would choose thenavy ball cap for my husband and soon to be new dad.
- May 27, 2011 7:00 PM
Congrats Kelley - she will win her choice of a hat or Tshirt from ThanksDad as well has sunglasses from Baby Banz!
True Random Number Generator
1 93 50
Powered by RANDOM.ORG
Sunday, June 5, 2011
Sun Protection Specifically for Kids
Sun Protection for Children
Sun protection for children is vital to the overall health of an emerging generation. They need to learn from an early age the benefits and dangers about the sun. The sun is vital to our existence – we all know and understand this. But as with most things in life, nothing is perfect.
With the hours children spend in front of computers and video games, it’s a gift when we see them playing outside. But even with this trend, there is still a rise in childhood skin disease and skin cancer.
Children’s skin is more vulnerable to be damaged by the sun’s UVA and UVB rays and it is widely believed that 80% of our lifetime sun exposed happens before our 18th birthday. Just a few serious
sunburns in a child’s early years can increase the possibility of a skin cancer diagnosis as an adult, especially melanoma – the most serious from of skin cancer. Non–melanoma skin cancers are linked to long term sun exposure, such as summers at the shore and playing school sports, especially for those with fair skin, freckles, light hair and eyes.
Skin Cancer in Children:It is a myth that skin cancer is not a threat to children or teens. Skin damage accumulates over our lifetime and our childhood is the beginning of that life. As parents we try to teach our kids to eat right and exercise to keep healthy.
It’s only natural to teach them about the sun, limiting the amount of sun exposure, using sun-protective measures when outside, such as sunscreen and sun-protective apparel, and to avoid tanning beds.
Until recently, melanoma in children was almost unheard of, but there have been over 500 reported cases during the past decade alone and that number is expected to rise. As you would imagine, most parents or pediatricians don’t expect to find skin cancer in children. Because of this, pediatric melanoma often goes undiagnosed until the condition reaches the later stages, many times putting the child in great risk of a poor outcome.
Educating our children about sun protection is urgently needed. We need to raise awareness about the dangers of UV radiation that will create changes in our lifestyles and reverse the growing trend towards more skin disease and skin cancers.
There have been many educational programs created for schools and communities to use to spread the word about sun protection for children. Most of these campaigns center around the same simple principles:
YES - these all apply to adults too.
Seek Shade: UV rays are strongest and most harmful during midday sun (between 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.), so it's best to limit outdoor activities during this time. Try to seek shade under a tree, but if this is not possible try an umbrella, or a pop-up tent. 
Cover-Up: Clothing that covers as much of your child's skin is best. A Long-sleeved shirt and long pants with a tight weave are best, but they aren't always practical. A loose fitting T-shirt, long shorts, or a beach cover-up are good choices, too. There are many places to buy clothing and swimwear made with built in sun protection for children.
Get a Hat: Hats with wide brims that shade the face, scalp, ears, eyes and neck provide great protection. Baseball caps are popular, but they don't protect their ears and neck.
Wear Sunglasses: Look for sunglasses that wrap around and block as close to 100% of both UVA and UVB rays as possible. This will greatly reduce sun exposure which can lead to cataracts and other eye damage later in life.
Sunscreen: Use a broad spectrum sunscreen with an SPF 15+ 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 and reapply every two hours. Find out more about the many sun protection for children campaigns and start one in your community or child’s school.
Wednesday, June 1, 2011
Sun Safety Week June 1-7
Sun Safety Week
June 1 - 7
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Tuesday, May 31, 2011
How to choose the right sunscreen for you and yoru family.
Confused by the types of sunscreens available?
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
Over the last few years the advancements in many new types of sunscreen have eliminated many of these problems.
- 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
- 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
- Mineral oil-free sunscreen
- Non-comedogenic sunscreen
- Sunscreens that are oil free are usually water or gel based
- 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
- 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
- Try creams or lotions with extra hydrating ingredients like glycerin and aloe.
- Avoid sprays and gels with alcohol
- 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.
Thursday, May 26, 2011
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._________________________________________________________________
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!!!
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.
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.
- 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.
- 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.
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