What sunscreen is best for kids?

What should I look for on the bottle?

A bottle marked "baby" still needs its label checked. The FDA has not defined "baby" or "sensitive skin" for sunscreen. Baby sunscreens generally contain zinc oxide, titanium dioxide or both, but check the active ingredients rather than relying on the name.1

Should children use mineral sunscreen?

Mineral sunscreen is the preferred choice for infants and toddlers aged 6 months and older because zinc oxide and titanium dioxide are less likely to irritate their sensitive skin. For older children, mineral sunscreen is especially useful if their skin is sensitive. Chemical and hybrid sunscreens can also provide effective protection when they meet the same SPF, broad spectrum and water resistance requirements. Hybrid formulas combine mineral and chemical filters. Mineral sunscreen is not simply a shield that bounces sunlight away: like chemical sunscreen, it absorbs UV rays, and it also reflects some rays.14

What SPF should kids use?

Use at least SPF 30. SPF 30 provides about 97% protection against UVB rays, while SPF 50+ provides about 98%. Higher SPF gives greater expected protection, but the number assumes a sufficient amount of sunscreen has been applied. A thin coating will not deliver the protection shown on the bottle. SPF mainly describes UVB protection, so a high SPF number does not replace the need to check UVA protection. No sunscreen blocks all UV radiation. Higher SPF also does not extend the interval between applications: SPF 50 still needs regular reapplication.45

Is a cream, stick or spray best?

Creams are useful for dry skin and the face, while sticks are useful around the eyes. Sprays can be convenient for children, but judging whether you have applied enough is harder. Spray until the skin glistens, then rub it in for even coverage. Never spray directly onto the face or near the mouth, and avoid inhalation. Do not spray into the wind or use spray sunscreen near heat or an open flame.4

How do I apply sunscreen to a child?

1. 1Read the product directions, including the age guidance and instructions for its particular form.
2. 2Apply sunscreen 15 minutes before sun exposure. Cover all exposed skin evenly, avoiding the eyes and mouth.
3. 3Use enough for complete coverage. For an average sized adult or child, the FDA gives at least one ounce as a guide for covering the whole body from head to toe; the amount needed depends on how much skin is exposed.
4. 4Check the easily missed areas: ears, nose, back of the neck, hands, tops of the feet and hairline. Use an SPF lip balm for the lips.
5. 5Check the water resistance time before swimming, and keep the bottle available for reapplication.

How often should I reapply sunscreen on a child?

Reapply every two hours outdoors, and straight after swimming, towel drying, sweating or rubbing sunscreen off. Follow the bottle's directions during swimming or sweating: water resistance lasts either 40 or 80 minutes, not indefinitely. Reapply after getting out of the water even if the stated time has not elapsed. Water washes sunscreen off, and its cooling effect can make a child feel comfortable while sun exposure continues. Water also reflects UV rays. Water resistant sunscreen is useful for swimming and active play, but no sunscreen is waterproof.16

What about babies younger than 6 months?

Keep babies younger than 6 months out of direct sunlight. Their skin is vulnerable to serious burns, and they have a greater risk of sunscreen side effects such as a rash. Use natural shade or create shade with an umbrella, tent or stroller canopy. Dress babies in lightweight long sleeves and pants, plus a brimmed hat that shades the face, neck and ears. A baseball cap does not cover the neck or ears. Choose tightly woven fabric rather than sheer clothing. Watch for overheating and dehydration, because young babies cannot regulate heat as effectively as adults. If you are outside for more than a few minutes, offer breast milk or formula.2

What else should children wear?

Use sunscreen alongside shade, covering clothing, a wide brimmed hat and sunglasses. Children of every skin tone need sun protection. In the UK, take particular care between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. from March to October. On UK bottles, look for SPF 30 or higher and at least four star UVA protection; a circled UVA symbol indicates the EU standard. Cloudy weather does not rule out sunburn.6

Can I use last year's sunscreen?

Check the expiry date before using it. For US sunscreen without an expiry date, discard it three years after purchase, or sooner if you do not know its age. Keep the container out of excessive heat and direct sunlight, including during a day outside. Store it in the shade or wrap it in a towel.3

When does sunburn need medical help?

If a baby is becoming sunburned, leave the sun immediately, apply cold compresses and call their pediatrician right away. Watch for fussiness, redness and excessive crying. For an older child, seek medical help if they feel unwell or their skin swells badly or blisters. Keep sunburned skin out of the sun while it heals.26