Requirements
Permitted Products: Students may possess and use FDA-regulated over-the-counter sunscreen at school and school events.
Authorization:
- A Parent Prescriber Authorization Form must be submitted to the school nurse if a school employee is requested to apply sunscreen.
- Parents/guardians are responsible for providing sunscreen.
Sunscreen Criteria:
- Must be safe for the child’s age.
- Must be in the original container and labeled with the child’s full name.
- Must be within the expiration date.
- Aerosols and combined sunscreen/insect repellent products are prohibited.
- Chemical agents containing Oxybenzone are not recommended; Zinc Oxide or Titanium Dioxide are preferred.
- Must provide broad-spectrum coverage (UVB and UVA protection) with an SPF of 15 or greater.
Allergy Testing: Sunscreen should be applied at home at least once prior to school use to test for allergic reactions.
Annual Update: The Prescriber/Parent Authorization Form must be updated annually.
Sun Protection Recommendations
Shade: Avoid sun exposure during peak hours (10 AM - 4 PM) and seek shaded areas.
Clothing: Wear protective clothing (long-sleeved shirts, tightly woven fabric, UV-protective clothing).
Hats: Use a wide-brimmed hat to shade the face, ears, and neck. For baseball caps, protect the ears and neck.
Sunscreen Provision: Parents/guardians must provide labeled sunscreen. The school will not stock or share sunscreen.
Application Guidelines
Timing: Apply sunscreen 20-30 minutes before going outdoors for effective absorption. Reapply every two hours, or more frequently if swimming or sweating.
Coverage: Apply to all exposed skin areas. School-age children may apply sunscreen to themselves with adult supervision.
Amount: Use 1-2 ounces for adequate coverage.
Avoid Reflective Areas: Limit time in reflective areas (e.g., water, sand) to prevent sunburn.
References: