Kids are cool when it comes to the sun

It seems that at long last, all the warnings about the dangers of exposure to the sun’s harmful rays may be reaching their most important audience – the kids.
Owner of Perth-based swimwear retailer, Viva Swimwear, Julie Wiggins says sales figures for her ultraviolet (UV) resistant rash shirts and bodysuits reflect the fact that more and more kids are covering up, with long-sleeved rash tops becoming in demand than short-sleeved ones.The children are taking the initiative and making sure that their parents provide them with swimwear that provides full protection from the sun.” 
According to the Cancer Council, skin cancer is ‘an almost entirely preventable disease’ – yet Australia has one of the highest incidences of skin cancer in the world with over 1 600 deaths every year.Just one incident of blistering sunburn will significantly increase the likelihood of that person getting cancer, acording to research, with children generally being exposed to between 50 to 80% of their lifetime exposure to the sun before they reach 18 years. 
According to Julie, it is very important to check the fabric of sun-protective swimwear.  “100% polyester has the highest SPF (sun protection factor) of any fabric, giving wearers two to three times the protection of other fabrics.The children’s range from Viva Swimwear is made from fabric sourced in Italy which is 100% polyester with a UPF of 50+.It is safe for use outdoors in the sun but it is also chlorine-resistant – an important factor to consider when choosing your kids’ swimwear.”
In summer, kids seem to spend more time in the pool than they do out if it.Sunkins swimwear’s chlorine-resistant fabric won’t fade, droop or disintegrate, keeping its integrity against the sun.  It also means the swimwear will last despite extended exposure to chlorinated water, which makes it a cost-effective option.
Endorsements from sports stars may be a contibuting factor in the growing acceptance of sun-proof swimwear.Since 2006, Viva Swimwear has been contracted by the Margaret River Pro Surfing series to provide custom-made rash shirts for the event, adding a new dimension to their range.Says Julie : “Kids want to look like their heroes, so when they see the surfers on TV wearing rashies, they want one too!”
A favourite since its launch in 1991, Sunkins was one of the first Western Australian sun-protective swimwear brands.Sun-protective children’s swimwear has been selling well for years, but there has been a recent increase in demand for long-sleeved rash tops which could mean that children are finally listening to all the warnings about exposure to the sun.