Expat kids moving to a sunnier destination need to be educated on the risks of skin cancer.
Many expat families want to make the most of the weather when they move abroad. One reason why large numbers of British expats move to Spain, Australia and Thailand is to take advantage of the improved climate.
However, moving with children from the rainy climate of the UK to somewhere with a much higher sun exposure comes with added risks. According to the American Cancer Society, more than 3.5 million skin cancers are diagnosed each year. This is more than all other cancers combined. The primary cause is UV exposure. Much of the damage that will lead to future skin cancers occurs before age 18.
For Australian children, skin protection is part of growing up; they routinely apply sunscreen and are used to wearing hats outdoors. For British youngsters it can be more of a chore and something they need to be taught about.
Recommended skin protection for children
Babies under six months old should be kept protected by shade or clothing. After six months the American Cancer Society recommends at least SPF 15, which blocks 93 percent of harmful UVB rays.
Sun protection should be applied 20 to 30 minutes before going out in the sun for all infants and children. This gives it time to be absorbed into the skin. You should reapply sunscreen after sweating or swimming. In any case protection should be reapplied every one to two hours.
Some studies have shown people may suffer from vitamin D deficiencies due to overuse of sunscreen. Other than for young children, putting sunscreen on 15 minutes after going out into the sun can help reduce vitamin D deficiency.
See below for a video containing information on sun protection and how to apply sunscreen.