Colorado Sun Danger: Consumer Reports Advises Against Using Spray Sunscreens on Kids

The number one thing kids want to do in the summer here in Colorado is BE OUTSIDE! Why not? It’s beautiful here, with tons of things to do!  It’s important to remember though, that our state sits a whole lot higher to the sun than a lot of other states; and everyone should protective themselves from the sun!

Consumer Reports and the FDA are advising parents on protecting KIDS from the rays this summer!

As you stock up on sunscreen this summer and head out for some Colorado fun, protect yourself and especially your kids, from the Colorado sun!  Consumer Reports is saying DO NOT USE SPRAY SUNSREENS ON CHILDREN

From Consumer Reports:

The Food and Drug Administration announced [In June 2014] that it was investigating the potential risks of spray sunscreens. Of particular concern to us is the possibility that people might accidentally breathe in the ingredients, a risk that’s greatest in children, who—as any parent knows—are more likely to squirm around when they’re being sprayed.

That stuff is COLD! I’d squirm too!  They also included some great tips along with the advisory:

• Don’t use sprays on children, unless you have no other product available. In that case, spray the sunscreen onto your hands and rub it on. As with all sunscreens, be especially careful on the face, taking care to avoid the eyes and mouth.

• Adults can still use sprays—but don’t spray your face! Instead, spray on your hands and rub it on, making sure to avoid your eyes and mouth. And try to avoid inhaling it.

• Make sure you apply enough. Our tests have found that sprays can work well when used properly—but it is harder to make sure that you apply enough, especially when it’s windy. We recommend spraying as much as can be evenly applied, and then repeating, just to be safe. On windy days, you might want to spray the sunscreen on your hands and rub it on—or just choose one of our recommended lotions instead.

So, get the kids outside- let them enjoy all that the Colorado outdoors has to offer- just make sure that they've got plenty of the right sun protection on!

[Source: Consumer Reports]