12 Nov Sun Protection 101: What Sunscreen Should You Use on Your Little One?
From adorable giggles to energetic playground chases, our kiddos deserve the best protection under the sun.
- Under 6 Months? Keep Them Shaded, Not Sunscreened
- Babies younger than six months have ultra-sensitive skin that may react to sunscreen ingredients. Experts (FDA and AAP) recommend using shade, protective clothing, hats, and strollers to shield them instead of sunscreen.
- 6 Months and Older: Sunscreen Is a Go—But Choose Wisely!
- Use a broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher, ideally up to SPF 50.
- When outdoors, apply freely and generously—think one ounce (about a golf ball) for the body or use the two-finger rule for the face—and reapply every two hours or after swimming/sweating.
- Mineral Sunscreens Are Top Picks for Sensitive Skin
- Zinc oxide and titanium dioxide are mineral filters that sit atop the skin and reflect UV rays. They’re recognized as “Generally Recognized as Safe and Effective” (GRASE) by the FDA.
- Zinc oxide offers particularly broad UVA and UVB protection.
- Recommended especially for infants (6+ months), children with eczema or sensitive skin, and families concerned about ingredient safety.
- Chemical Sunscreens: Effective, But With Caveats
- These use organic compounds like avobenzone, oxybenzone, etc., to absorb and dissipate UV energy as heat.
- They often feel more lightweight and invisible—but may take 15–20 minutes to become active, and can cause irritation or potentially disrupt hormones (some ingredients are still under scrutiny).
Overall, mineral sunscreens are the simpler, lower-risk choice for little ones.
Best Practices for My Kiddo’s Super SPF Routine
- Choose: Broad-spectrum, water-resistant, SPF 30–50, and preferably mineral-based.
- Apply: Generously to all exposed skin (ears, scalp patches, tops of feet, hands), even on cloudy days.
- Reapply: Every 2 hours, and after splashing, sweating, or towel-drying.
- Protect: Use hats, UPF clothing, sunglasses, and shade, especially between 10 a.m.–4 p.m., when UV rays are strongest.
- Model the habit: Show your child that sun safety isn’t just important—it’s routine family fun.
Science + Sunshine = Safe, Fun Days
To sum it up:
- For babies under 6 months → shade and clothing first.
- For kiddos 6 months and older → mineral sunscreen (zinc oxide, titanium dioxide), SPF 30–50, broad-spectrum, water‑resistant.
- Always apply plenty, reapply often, and layer in physical protection for stronger, long-lasting defense.