When it comes to kids' sunscreen, there are so many choices it can be hard to know which option is best. Find out what provides the best protection, what sunscreen ingredients to avoid and how to apply sunscreen effectively.
What's the best sunscreen for kids?
When picking out a good sunscreen for your kids, there are a few things you want to make sure it includes:
- Broad-spectrum coverage. Choose a sunscreen with broad-spectrum coverage (meaning the sunscreen protects against UVA and UVB rays). UVA rays can cause tanning, aging, leathery skin and skin cancer including melanoma. UVB rays can cause sunburns, skin cancer and increased moles in some individuals.
- SPF 30+. Look for a sun protection factor (SPF) of 30 or higher.
- Water resistance. If your child plans to spend time swimming or playing in water, choose one that is water-resistant. Water-resistant sunscreens can protect kids while in the water for 40-80 minutes.
- Hypoallergenic. If your child has sensitive skin, choose a mineral sunscreen that has zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. This kind of sunscreen doesn't get absorbed as readily through the skin as more chemical-based sunscreens and it starts working as soon as it's applied.
What's the difference between kid and adult sunscreen?
The main difference is that sunscreens for kids often use gentler, hypoallergenic ingredients and don't have harsh chemicals and fragrances that might irritate their skin. Often, kids' sunscreens use a mineral base (that may make them a little pasty and white).
Kid sunscreens may also have added features like water resistance, making them suitable for swimming and outdoor activities. While it may be convenient to use or share the same sunscreen as your child, it's important to choose the right sunscreen for each age group to ensure optimal protection while considering your child's unique needs and sensitivities.
Is spray sunscreen safe for kids?
Spray-on sunscreen seems like a great timesaver, but it puts your child at risk of breathing in harmful chemicals when sprayed. Instead, choose sunscreen lotions, which also contain moisturizers for the skin.
Are there certain sunscreen ingredients to avoid?
Benzene is a chemical used in a variety of industrial products, but extended exposure to it may result in cancers and other blood disorders. Many sunscreens have been recalled due to benzene contamination. Find out if your sunscreen was recalled.
It's also best to avoid sunscreens containing avobenzone, which is harmful to the environment. Avobenzone is even banned in some locations, such as coastal areas with nearby coral reefs.
Tips on how to use sunscreen for kids
Even after you've purchased the best sunscreen for your kids, it won't provide adequate protection unless you apply it correctly. Follow these tips to make sure your child is protected from the sun, especially when swimming or sweating:
1. Apply sunscreen daily
Sunscreen isn't just for the beach or warm weather. It's best to apply it anytime your child is going to be outdoors. Even if it's not sunny, 80% of UV rays still get through the clouds. And if it's snowing, snow reflects 80% of UV radiation, which is why many kids can get badly burned on a sunny day in winter.
2. Do not put sunscreen on babies under 6 months
Babies under 6 months old are at greater risk than adults of sunscreen side effects, like a rash. If your child is under 6 months, you can limit their exposure to the sun by keeping your baby in the shade or having them wear a hat or sun-protective clothes that can help protect their sensitive skin.
Get more tips on keeping your newborn or baby safe during the summertime.
3. Apply enough sunscreen
Generally, it takes about one ounce (two tablespoons) of sunscreen to cover the exposed parts of your body – and a bit less for smaller children.
When you're applying sunscreen on your child, don't forget to apply it to the nose, ears, neck, hands and feet – and use a lip balm with an SPF 30 or higher for their lips.
4. Apply early and often
If possible, put sunscreen on your child 30 minutes before they go out in the sun or get in the water.
And then reapply:
- Every two hours, if they are not playing in water.
- Every 80 minutes, if they are playing in water.
5. Combine sunscreen with other protective measures
While sunscreen is effective, parents should also be taking other precautions to protect their child's skin. Avoid outdoor activities during peak sunshine hours (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.), try to find shade when spending time outside and wear a hat, sunglasses and sun-protective clothing.
Learn more
Children's Health is by your side keeping your family healthy and safe this summer. See more summer safety tips.
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