Most people have moles (birthmarks, nevi). A mole is a benign malformation of the skin. Moles develop mainly during childhood. How many “speckles” are formed depends mainly on genetic predisposition. But UV radiation also plays a role in moles. Therefore, it is important to properly select the sun protection factor of the sunscreen in order to protect molesfrom UV radiation.
Protect moles from sun
Everyone can easily check this on themselves: On the upper side of the forearms, which is particularly often exposed to intense sunlight, there are usually more moles than on the underside of the upper arms. These spots, which are harmless at first, can change in adults under certain circumstances and lead to black skin cancer (melanoma). Those who have many moles have an increased risk of melanoma. Therefore, it is important to reduce the formation of moles in children by using appropriate sun protection.
Children and moles
A Canadian study demonstrates that this is possible with the help of sunscreen products with high sun protection factors (SPFs). 458 children participated in the three-year study. Those children who were consistently protected by their parents with high SPFs (at least 30) developed fewer new nevi than those who used weaker sunscreens. This success was particularly evident in children with many freckles: after three years, the well-protected freckle-rich children had 30 to 40 percent fewer new moles than the children with many freckles in the control group who were not consistently protected with high sun protection factors.
Conclusion
A child’s later risk of melanoma can be reduced right now with appropriate sun protection. It is important to prevent any sunburn, no matter how mild. The best protection is shade, clothing and avoiding the particularly intense midday sun. Uncovered skin areas must be consistently protected by sunscreens with high factors, even when staying in the shade in southern climes. For example, a children’s sun milk with SPF 35/UVA 16 is suitable, and SPF 60/UVA 16 for long stays in the sun or for intense sun exposure.
