Sun Exposure Case A family comes to your office and they are planning a visit to Florida in August. The mother has some questions about sunscreens and sun exposure for her 4 month and 6 year old daughters. Teenagers are especially vulnerable because color seems to be fashionable and they are not conscientious using sun protection. It is very important for pediatricians to advise parents about the dangers of too much sun.
Sun damage is cumulative and a blistering sunburn doubles the chance of developing skin cancer.
Squamous cell cancer, basal cell carcinoma, and melanoma have all been linked to sun exposure. UVB and UVA are both harmful to skin. Besides causing skin cancer, UV radiation has also been linked to formation of cataracts, premature aging, photoallergies, skin immune system changes, and sunburn. Tanning is secondary to DNA damage and repair and the triggering of pigmentation formation. It is recommended to use a product that covers both ranges.