As we head into the thick of summer, we”™re all reminded of the need for sunscreen. But the group that perhaps needs it most is often too hard to pin down for the application ”“ too busy playing softball or building sandcastles or just running around having fun being kids.
What”™s a parent to do? Follow these tips:
The best SPF (Sun Protection Factor) for kids is UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) clothing ”“ Good long-sleeved rash guards, wide-brimmed hats and longer shorts are the best and easiest sun coverage and most effective.
Use mineral sunscreen ”“ I prefer mineral sunscreen for kids that contains zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. Ideally, look for a product that is higher in zinc than titanium. Zinc is the best broad spectrum UV absorber and has the best UVA AND UVB coverage. (Most sunscreens are great at UVB coverage, which protects against burns, but not as good at UVA coverage, which protects against photo-aging, freckling and wrinkling down the line.)
That said, the best sunscreen is the sunscreen children will actually use —”¯
Though I have my favorites ”“ see below ”“ if it turns into a huge deal for it to be applied, then apply what they will actually use and reapply.”¯
Reapply sunscreen often ”“ This is very important. Though sunscreens may say water- and sweat-resistant, in real life, sunblock easily wipes off or thins out in certain areas. Make sure to reapply sunscreen after the kids have been in the water and towel dry.”¯
Carry an SPF zinc-oxide stick in your bag ”“ This is my quick summer hack ”“ it’s so easy to use and not messy ”“ for when you’re out and about and need to apply some more SPF, or it’s sunnier than you anticipated.
Reconsider sunscreen spray ”“ I don”™t love sprays. They go on unevenly and there is some concern about aerosolized particles getting into the lungs. But older kids tend to like them. If you are going to use a spray, apply it in an outdoor area away from other people. Legs are a good place to apply it, because they are far from the face. Make sure to rub the sunscreen in very well after applying.
Avoid SPF and use only UPF protective clothing for babies under 6 months —
It is generally recommended to avoid sunscreen lotion for babies until after they are 6 months old. However, if the baby will be in the sun, I am fine with small amounts of mineral sunblock that contains mostly zinc oxide. Zinc is not absorbed in the skin and is the same ingredient in diaper paste, so this is a good option and safest for small babies.”¯
Ideally, use an SPF of 50 or higher.”¯ We used to say SPF 30 is good enough, but there has been some recent data showing better coverage with higher SPFs, so I do try to recommend 50 and above, especially if kids are out in sun a lot.
Some examples of sunscreen lotion products I like are Eucerin Sensitive Mineral Zinc Oxide Protection, SPF 50 and Thinkbaby Safe Sunscreen.
Some examples of sunscreen sticks I like are Blue Lizard Baby Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50+;
Aveno Positively Mineral SPF 50; and Neutrogena Mineral Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Face & Body.
Leah Ansell, M.D., F.A.A.D.,”¯ is a board-certified dermatologist with expertise in cosmetic, medical and surgical dermatology and a family practice in Rye, as well as a clinical instructor of dermatology”¯at Columbia University in Manhattan.
