Sun safety: 5 things to know
Sun protection is so important, no matter your age, and with how many products are available it can be hard to know which to choose.
Here are my top tips for the summer!
For specific guidelines on products, check out this post.
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Mineral-based > chemical-based
Mineral based sunscreens provide a protective physical barrier from the sun.
Active ingredients include zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, which are safe (think about it: we use zinc oxide for diaper ointment!)
Chemical sunscreens have more varied ingredients, often including oxybenzone, which is not great for the environment (although this conclusion is a little debatable). We also have data that it can be absorbed into the skin, though, and the extent to which that is problematic is unclear.
Spray-based sunscreens should also be avoided in infants and toddlers because of the risk of inhalation. If you must use one, spray it on your hands first and then rub on your child.
SPF 30 minimum
Higher SPF does not necessarily mean better sunscreen. SPF 30 blocks about 97% of the sun’s UVB rays, which should be sufficient, especially if used in conjunction with other methods of sun protection. Make sure you pick a broad spectrum sunscreen.
Apply… and re-apply
Apply the sunscreen 20-30 minutes before you go outside, and then make sure to re-apply after 2 hours, or after your child has been in the water.
The Pediatrician Mom Tip: Using a make-up applicator brush or sponge makes applying sunscreen much easier and less-messy.
Layer methods of sun protection
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Don’t forget that sunscreen should not be your only sun protection measure. Make sure you use sun-protective clothing, hats, and sunglasses if your child will keep them on.
Avoiding prolonged time in direct-sunlight (10am - 4pm) and staying in the shade are also helpful.
Remember: you need sunscreen even on cloudy days!
Hydration
Especially for children out having fun, remembering to stay hydrated is hard. Here are some signs of dehydration in children to watch for, but in general make sure you remind your child to drink!
Include a variety of hydrating snacks in your cooler as well. Our favorites are cucumbers, watermelon, berries, popsicles, and yogurt/fruit/vegetable pouches.
The Pediatrician Mom Tip: put your sunscreen in the drinks cooler. Every time you open your cooler for a drink, you will have a reminder to reapply! Plus cool sunscreen is often more comfortable to re-apply to hot kids.
FAQs
Do you still need sunscreen if you have dark skin?
Yes. Sunscreen is essential for everyone. People with more melanin in their skin are more likely to develop pigmentation changes (eg sun spots) & although they overall have lower incidence of skin cancers, if they do develop cancer it tends to be more advanced (takes longer to be diagnosed).
What about babies under 6 months?
We typically do not recommend sunscreen for babies under 6 months. They are more vulnerable to dehydration and over-heating, and so limiting the time spent in sunshine is recommended. For times when sun exposure is inevitable, focus instead on other methods of sun protection: UPF clothing, staying in the shade, hats, etc.
Do you have product recommendations?
Yes! I have a separate post on this. Some of the products are also on my Amazon affiliate page (full disclosure - I earn a commission if you order via this page).
https://unsplash.com/@vidarnm
I also have a post on product recs. I hope this info helps you figure out what your family actually needs to help them stay safe and active in the sunshine. Have fun!
