Photo protection in children

Children are the population group who most need photo protection. They are very sensitive to the negative consequences of an excessive sun exposure, and they aren’t aware of the risk. Children have much more open air activity than adults, and the exposure to ultraviolet radiation and sun burns in childhood are a risk factor of the utmost importance in the development of skin cancer in adulthood.

It is therefore of vital relevance to protect the child from the deleterious effects of ultraviolet radiation.

The photo protection measures include sun avoidance, protection with cloths, caps and solar glasses, and the use of photo protection ointments.

Sun education campaigns should be implemented in hospitals, schools and communication media, and with dermatologists, pediatricians, teachers and political referents altogether.