As covered in a previous post on outdoor family play, going on a picnic as a family can be an effective way to spend quality time, strengthen bonds, and become physically active by running, jumping, and playing active games in nature. Additionally, being exposed to fresh air and natural sunlight can help boost you and your kids’ immune system.
However, while sunlight is an excellent source of vitamin D for growth and development, prolonged exposure to the sun’s ultraviolet rays can have its own set of health risks. Research shows that UV exposure not only causes sunburn but can also increase the risk of skin cancers, including melanoma, which is considered the most lethal type. Children are especially vulnerable to UV damage, as their skin barrier is still developing and photoaging can accumulate over time and manifest as skin problems later in life.
Fortunately, you can pack the following outdoor essentials on your next picnic to keep your family healthy and sun-safe.
Sunscreen
Through a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 30, sunscreen serves as the first line of defense against the sun’s harmful UV rays. Dermatologists recommend choosing sunscreen with broad-spectrum protection against both UVA and UVB radiation since these typically have minerals like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, which are suited for sensitive skin of all ages. A viable option would be Neutrogena’s Purescreen+ Invisible Daily Defense Mineral Face Liquid SPF 30, a mineral face sunscreen that has a lightweight formula and contains vitamin E and feverfew to adequately protect the skin from sun-induced free radical damage.
Sunglasses
In addition to causing sunburn and skin cancer, UV radiation can also strain the eyes and reach internal structures like the cornea, lens, and retina. This can contribute to the development of photokeratitis or abnormal growth in the eye, making sunglasses with 100% UV protection crucial for all family members when outdoors. Even if you’re too busy to shop for sunglasses for everyone, the leading US retailer Target Optical has made it easier to order online through its virtual glasses try on tool. After choosing from protective frame styles like the oversized VO5356 from Vogue Eyewear and the best-selling Armani Exchange AX3077, you can use your digital device’s camera to ensure they’re the right fit.
Sun hat
It’s equally essential to cover the head to minimize UV exposure and allow the body to better regulate its temperature under the sun—reducing the risk of heat-related illnesses like heat stroke. Thus, both kids and adults must consider wearing sun hats, ideally made of lightweight materials like cotton, nylon, and linen for optimal comfort and breathability no matter how long you wear them. Brands like The North Face and Columbia have sun hats in protective styles like bucket hats, while kid-friendly options with adjustable straps are offered by CTR and Sunday Afternoons.
Sun shade or umbrella
Lastly, the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention advises individuals to seek shade when outdoors. While it’s possible to lay your picnic blanket in an area surrounded by lots of trees, you can also bring a sun shade or umbrella not only for additional privacy but to provide enough shade for the entire family. When choosing a sun shade, opt for one made of fabric that can block up to 98% of UV rays without trapping hot air underneath.
In summary, applying sunscreen, wearing sunglasses and sun hats, and bringing a sun shade can help your family enjoy a picnic by managing the health risks of UV exposure. Nonetheless, it’s important to know the signs of sunburn, such as red, painful, or sore skin, swelling, and dryness. This way, you can treat and manage this common heat-related condition in case of emergency.
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Ashley Pugh ;
Ashley Pugh is one of the Co-Founders of Familydaysout.com and has been committed to writing family related content since 2008. There isn't much about family attractions that Ashley doesn't know, after visiting hundreds of them worldwide over the last 20 years.
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