Written By: SarahAnn Harvey
Sun Protection is important year-round
Even though fall is coming, the sun will still be out, and it is important to use sun protection. You and your littles still want to hit the road where open waters and adventures await on the weekends and after school! This is so exciting, but are you and your family properly prepared for the continued warm weather and sun exposure? Children’s and adults’ skin are sensitive. We want to keep you and your kiddos as safe as possible even as we come into fall.
Follow our simple and helpful information for sun protection and guidelines to be best prepared for all you have planned.
The two most harmful types of sun rays
First, know the two most harmful types of sun rays to you and your family’s skin. These rays are often mentioned on various sunscreen and clothing/swimsuit labels but can be confusing when trying to figure out what you’re protecting against.
- UVA: Ultraviolet A (UVA) has a longer wavelength and is associated with skin aging.
- UVB: Ultraviolet B (UVB) has a shorter wavelength and is associated with skin burning.
While UVA and UVB rays differ in how they affect the skin, they can cause much harm and damage. UVA/UVB rays can cause cancers and severe eye damage if unprotected. The quicker you apply sun protection measures such as sunscreen or sun protective clothing, the better.
Get your Sun Protection items at Beanstalk
At Beanstalk, we have two convenient locations within the Montavilla neighborhood, and on NE Fremont St., We offer an array of sun-safe options for your family. We offer online and in-store shopping to suit your and your family’s needs. Sunscreen and proper shaded sun protection areas are key in preventing sun damage to you and your family. At Beanstalk, we carry new and used items, including but not limited to umbrellas, sun hats, sunglasses, and often a few sun-safe clothing and swimsuit options to help protect your littles and yourself.
With protective clothing, properly shaded areas, and sunscreen wear, you are ready to go forward with all your exciting adventures! 
Recommendations for applying sunscreen
When applying sunscreen, it is often recommended to apply it 15 minutes before sun exposure. And always remember to reapply your sun protection after the recommended time or after swimming/sweating occurs. It is often helpful to add reminders on your phone or stopwatch to help you and others remember to reapply. This is the easiest way to instill the importance of sun protection for your kids and you.
When reading your sunscreen’s label, know this:
- UVB is affiliated with the SPF number on the label.
- The SPF amount listed on your sunscreen is how long the sun rays would take to damage your skin. For example, SPF 30 sunscreen applied properly would take 30X longer to damage your skin than if you didn’t wear sunscreen.
- UVA is affiliated with the phrase “Broad Spectrum.” Be sure to look for sunscreens that include these extra sun protection ingredients.
Check out this information and guidelines on sunscreen safety and a list of tested safe sunscreens recommended for babies and kids, everyday use, recreational use, and non-mineral safe sunscreens.
You will be glad you did, no matter what time of year it is.
