Natural Remedy: Stop Wrinkles from Forming by Protecting Your Child's Skin from the Sun

Women (and men) shell out oodles of cash on anti-aging products, but did you know that wrinkles are primarily caused by sun damage? The bulk of the damage takes place before the age of 20.

The time to protect your child from premature aging of the skin is now.

Help curb sun damage with these tips (and put them into practice for you. It's never too late to protect your skin!)

WEAR SUNGLASSES - invest a few dollars in glasses that filter 95-100 percent of ultraviolet light. Your child's eyes are precious, it's worth the extra coverage.

COVER UP WITH DARK CLOTHING - preferably children, especially infants, should wear long sleeves and pants if the weather is not too hot. Darker colors provide better protection than light. Even when choosing a t-shirt, opt for a darker color when possible.

TOP IT OFF - You'll find an adorable selection of children's hats available and most provide great protection from the sun. Choose something that covers the head and shadows the ears, neck, and face for the best results. Look for a hat with a wide brim that goes all the way around the hat, such a fisherman's style, garden, or floppy sun hat.

WATCH THE TIME - The sun is strongest between 11 am and 3pm, so try to limit the child's time outside during these hours.

Also note, babies have such sensitive skin, they should not be out in the sun at any time. If it's unavoidable, be sure to take extra precautions to ensure their safety.

STAY IN - It may be tempting to go to the pool or lake, but when the weather is unbearably hot and the sun is at its strongest, keep your child indoors. They will be more comfortable in a cool, shaded room during scorching hot days.

PLAY IN THE SHADE - If staying indoors is not an option, try to keep your child in the shade outside. Look for trees or shelters to provide shade, or carry a large portable beach umbrella to help you create your own.

ALWAYS APPLY SUNSCREEN - Using sunscreen for your child's safety should not be considered an optional step. Don't skip this step on cloudy days or when playing outside in the winter (the winter sun rays can be very strong, especially if there is snow on the ground.)

Use sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or above and a lip balm, too. Ideally, apply the sunscreen 15 to 30 minutes prior to going outside.

If you are participating in water sports, make sure your child's sunscreen is waterproof and reapply sunscreen every one to two hours.

YOU CANNOT BE TOO CAREFUL - Exposure to sunlight doesn't just accelerate aging, it is also directly linked to developing skin cancer. Protecting your children from the adverse affects of the sun is wise parenting.