Reality television personality Sam Faiers has ignited a significant public discussion after making contentious remarks concerning sun protection for children, drawing widespread criticism from medical professionals and concerned parents alike.
The former TOWIE star took to social media to share her controversial approach, stating that she refrains from applying suncream to her three young children, asserting that they have “built up a really good tolerance to being in the sun.”
Faiers further elaborated on her stance, making unsubstantiated claims about sunscreen products being “pretty harmful and full of toxic ingredients,” a notion that has since been emphatically debunked by dermatological experts.
In her extensive social media post, she explained her family’s routine: “Honestly, me and my whole family don’t actually wear sunscreen. Over the years, the kids have built up a really good tolerance to being in the sun.” She also encouraged embracing sun exposure during less intense hours, though noted she carries a Tallow Zinc SPF and emphasizes hats for protection.
However, leading skin cancer prevention expert Dr. Ross Perry swiftly countered Faiers’ assertions, highlighting the severe risks associated with childhood sun exposure. Dr. Perry stated that “any degree of sunburn as a child it more than doubles their risk of getting skin cancer at a later date,” categorizing Faiers’ claims as “completely false and misleading.”
Dr. Perry vehemently refuted the idea that “children do not build up a tolerance to sun exposure,” underscoring the critical need for effective sun protection measures regardless of perceived tolerance levels or sun screen myths.
While acknowledging the potential for sun protective clothing as an alternative, particularly for active children, Dr. Perry stressed that such garments only cover specific areas, thereby still necessitating the application of a high SPF sunscreen for comprehensive skin cancer prevention.
The incident serves as a crucial reminder of the importance of adhering to expert dermatologist advice regarding children’s health and sun protection, emphasizing that well-established scientific consensus should always supersede anecdotal or unfounded personal beliefs in children’s health and well-being.
Leave a Reply