How to Choose the Right Sunscreen for Kids
Organic, mineral, water-resistant, sweat-resistant, lotion or spray? How to choose the right Sunscreen for the Kids? With so many options available on the market, choosing the right one for our children can be quite a challenge.
Every child needs sun protection. Children’s skin is more sensitive to UV radiation than adults. For this reason, it is important to protect their skin and encourage them to be SunSmart from an early age.
Habits learned at the early stages will stand to them throughout life. According to the Irish Cancer Society, while skin cancer is rare in children, much of the UV damage that leads to skin cancer takes place in the early years of life.
But again: how to choose the right Sunscreen for our child? We all know that what matters most when picking a sunscreen is how well it protects the skin from UV rays, but we also should be aware of which ones to stay away from and what to use with caution:
Don’t use sunscreens with PABA as it can cause skin allergies;
Sprays are convenient but should be used with caution: They easy to breathe in, which can irritate the lungs; they are flammable and sometimes they make it hard to tell if we have applied enough of it;
Creams, lotions, gels and sprays all work, but only if used properly. Always read the instructions on the label before applying the product on your Child;
Choose a water-resistant type for Children as it is safer for all the water games outside on a sunny day;
Always use SPF 30 or higher for children and reapply every 2 hours;
Choose a sunscreen that is made for children and babies, but also make sure to patch test it on their skin first. If their skin reacts to the product, stop using it straight away and try a different brand. There are many brands available for Children, so you can ask your Pharmacist to assist you in picking a good one.
To remember:
Babies younger than 6 months should be kept out of the sun. When going outside, dress your baby in lightweight clothes that cover arms and legs — and don’t forget a hat. If you can’t avoid the sun, you can use a small amount of sunscreen on your baby’s exposed skin, like the hands and face. There are sunscreens formulated specially for babies and very young children, so you can ask your Doctor or your Pharmacist which one to go for;
Apply to dry skin 20 minutes before going outside;
Be extra careful of those areas that do not get much sun as they will burn more easily. Also don’t forget to apply on the ears, neck, hands and feet;
Check the products use-by date and store it below 30°C;
Don’t forget hats and shades: they are very important for the Children out on a sunny day;
And last, but not least: Have Fun & Enjoy the Sunny Days with the whole Family!
