Keeping kids safe in the sun.

One blistering sunburn suffered as a child doubles the chances for skin cancer later in life. Melanoma and other skin problems related to excessive sun exposure are reasons why dermatologists emphasize the importance of teaching children and their parents the rights and wrongs of protecting their skin from an overdose of sunshine.

"The incidence of melanoma is increasing at a higher rate than any other skin cancer," cautions Elaine C. Siegfried, assistant professor of pediatrics and internal medicine, St. Louis University School of Medicine. "Both cumulative sun exposure and the tendency to sunburn play an important role in that. The younger you are when you begin taking care of your skin, the better off you'll be when you're older. It's a classic case of preventive medicine."

Approximately 80% of lifetime sun exposure occurs during childhood. Fair-skinned blondes usually don't tan well and burn more easily. Moreover, infants and young children have not had progressive sun exposure and will burn more easily than their parents. Following a few simple guidelines will minimize the risks of excessive sun exposure.

* Make sure your off spring wears a sun screen when playing or swimming outdoors. The best sun screen for children is the one they will wear and that does not need to be reapplied frequently. In general, products that...