Sunscreen in Kids

There are so many things to think about when considering sunscreens for kids. Here are my top things to think about when choosing sunscreen. 

Stop by the sunscreen aisle next time you’re in the grocery store and you’ll be faced with, at the very least, a dozen options all with loud colors to catch your attention and proclamations of safety.

In reality, what do you need to keep in mind for kids?

1. SPF or sun protective factor

   Recommendations usually say at least 15 for day to day life but if you’re about to head to the beach for a day in the sun, shoot for 30 and above. Studies haven’t shown a huge and notable difference between SPF after about 50. SPF is determined by measuring how much light can make skin red with sunscreen barrier applied over a certain amount of time. The lower the SPF, the faster skin turns red because more sun rays are able to get through it to the skin. 

2. Spectrum

   Both ultraviolet A and B rays from the sun damage skin whether by causing cancer or aging. Ideally, look for a sunscreen that is broad spectrum offering you protection from both of these classes. 

3. Barrier form

   The two classes of sunscreen available in our market are mineral and chemical. The mineral is composed of ingredients like zinc oxide and forms a physical barrier on skin to prevent the sun’s rays from coming through. This is better for sensitive skin, starts working immediately, has less environmental concerns but may have a white cast that is difficult to blend into skin. Chemical barriers turn rays into heat that should then dissipate into the environment. Chemical sunscreen takes about 20 minutes to start working after application and there have been concerns around safety for years with reports of cancer and hormonal effects as well as negative impact on the environment. There has been nothing definitive confirming these detrimental effects and they remain on the market with many people using these regularly. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends mineral over chemical sunscreen in kids.

4. Water-resistant

   If you’re headed for a day playing in or near bodies of water or even if you’ll be outdoors in a warm climate where you’ll be sweating, sunscreen will become less effective and wear off. Water resistant sunscreen lasts a bit longer than non resistant sunscreen. Even though you choose a water resistant sunscreen, this will still need to be reapplied every couple of hours depending on the product.

5. Formulation

   Avoid spray on sunscreen in kids for 2 main reasons. One, it’s difficult to know exactly how much you’ve applied vs how much was lost to the environment. Two, propellant fumes are toxic and inhalation should be avoided. 

Let me know what you think in a comment below and hope you have many days of safe fun in the sun this summer!