Summer is in full swing, and for many teens, that means spending too much time outdoors. Latino teens have been enjoying the sun more than others, so moms, listen up.

According to a recent study by Neutrogena in partnership with YouGov Plc. sun safety practices among Latino teens in the United States are concerning. While swimming, beach trips, and sports are all great ways to enjoy the season, it’s crucial to prioritize sun safety. The findings shed light on troubling trends that could impact their long-term health.

The study surveyed over 1,000 US teens aged 15 to 21. Participants were asked questions to assess their sun safety habits, summer job activities, sunscreen use, knowledge of sun misconceptions, and time spent outdoors. Here’s what we discovered.

Latino teens’ sunscreen practices are putting them at risk for sunburn

The survey revealed some concerning trends. While 91% of Latino teens reported spending time outdoors regularly, only 69% said they apply sunscreen beforehand. This leaves a significant portion of teens unprotected from the sun’s harmful UV rays, which can lead to sunburn and increase their risk of skin cancer later in life.

Almost 40% of teens surveyed believed misconceptions about tanning, likely due to social media and misinformation. Remember, a tan is damaged skin, and the idea that “a sunburn turns into a tan” is untrue.

Also, while many teens enjoy their summer jobs, 61% said they prefer early morning or afternoon gigs. However, while these hours are ideal, they coincide with peak UV times.

Sunscreen use among teens was also low, leaving them exposed to sunburns

Although 93% of the teens surveyed enjoy sun exposure, their sunscreen habits are not optimal.

Only 66% of teens admitted to applying sunscreen before going out. Also, only 54% understood the link between sun exposure and increased risk of skin cancer.

In the US, children and teens under 20 years old account for about 300 new cases of melanoma. However, there are different ways in which parents can ensure their children are protected and use sunscreen to their benefit.

Sun safety tips for parents

It’s not all bad news for teens regarding sun safety. With proper care, here are a few tips moms can use to keep teens prepared this summer.

One easy way is to use sunscreen every day and sun protection clothing. Regardless of the weather, sunscreen is a must. Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher 15 minutes before sun exposure and reapply every hour or more if swimming or sweating. The new Sport Active Defense Sunscreen Spray SPF 70 is essential for active teens during summer activities.

Another idea is to stay in the shade and fight misinformation about sun safety. During peak sun hours, trees, umbrellas, or pop-up tents are great ways to keep the sun’s rays away. Discuss the dangers of tanning with your teens and the importance of using sunscreen.

By working together, we can ensure teens have a safe and fun summer!