Sun Protection for Children | Sun Day Sunday

Happy Sunday Sun Day! I hope you have been enjoying this series. As a Physician Assistant this has been a fun mix between clinical knowledge and blogging. Today, the focus is all on our favorite little powerhouses – kids! Sun protection for children is so important because the efforts taken at a young age can have an effect for their whole life! Blistering sunburns in childhood are a risk factor for skin cancers later in life. Whether you have your own children, help care for children or have friends that have children, let’s talk about methods of sun protection for children.

Sun Protection for Children: Tips

Avoid the sun between 10am – 4pm.
Dress children in protective clothing with tightly woven fibers, wide-brimmed hats and sunglasses with UV filters.
Apply sunscreen every two hours, or after swimming/sweating.
Sunscreen is not indicated in babies under 6 months of age unless specifically recommended by their pediatrician, take extensive measures to protect their skin from the sun with clothing, umbrellas, shade and avoiding mid-day sun altogether as best as possible.
When using a new sunscreen in allergy-prone children, test a small portion out on their wrist the day before you are planning to use it to watch for potential allergic reactions.

Sun Protection for Children: Choosing a Sunscreen

Choose a broad-spectrum formula with UVA and UVB coverage
Look for “water resistant” or “very water resistant” on the labels if planning on swimming or sweating
Use sunscreens that are SPF 15-50+. Labels that are SPF 70 or above are discouraged as they may contain harmful ingredients and give the impression that it is ok to stay in the sun longer.
Avoid sunscreens with oxybenzone as they can allergic reactions and may cause hormonal effects. This ingredient may also be contributing to the decline of coral health.
Avoid sunscreen sprays as they may not apply an effective amount of sunscreen and can potentially be harmful if inhaled.

Sun Protection for Children: Recommended Sunscreens

Thinkbaby Safe Sunscreen Lotion (SPF 50+) – Natural, mineral-based, broad spectrum sunscreen that applies easily and is water resistant. Free of biologically harmful chemicals. Produced in the USA and without any animal testing. (My top pick!)
Blue Lizard Baby Sunscreen Lotion (SPF 30) – This mineral-based, broad spectrum sunscreen is both safe, sensitive and fragrance free. The packaging is BPA free and changes color when exposed to UV rays, reminding you to apply sunscreen!
Neutrogena Pure and Free Baby Sunscreen Lotion (SPF 50) – Mineral-based and broad spectrum sunscreen that is free of irritating chemicals, fragrance, parabens, phthalates, and dyes. Water resistant and excellent for sensitive skin!
Aveeno Baby Natural Protection Stick (SPF 50) – Great for the face! Because of it’s waxy formulation it’s less likely to go into their eyes. Also water resistant!

While the sunscreens listed include the word “baby”, they are safe for anyone over 6 months. All of the above mentioned sunscreens have a “1” or “2” rating on Environmental Working Group’s list of best sunscreens. To read how your child’s current sunscreen scores, search here.

If you have enjoyed the Sunday Sun Day series, I encourage you to peruse the previous topics: Sunscreen FAQ, Taking a Pill to Protect Your Skin, Sunscreen Tips for Eyelids and Lips.

Live your life joyfully so,

Ashley