Hey there, its Dr. Andrea. In this Blog I provide quick tips on choosing and using the best sunscreen for your little ones.

Summer is officially here and many kids and their families are spending more time outdoors enjoying the sun,but with increased sun exposure comes the risk of Sunburn and other problems.

Here are a few quick tips for choosing an effective and safe sunscreen for your child and advice on using it effectively!

Picking a Sunscreen

Choose a sunscreen that is/has:

  • Broad Spectrum (covers UVA and UVB sun rays)
  • Water resistant (up to 40 minutes) or Very Water Resistant (up to 80 minutes)
  • A minimum SPF of 30 to 50
  • Specifically made for infants or children, to minimize chemicals and potentially irritating fragrances and other unnecessary additives.
  • NO Oxybenzone, as it may have hormonal effects

Applying Sunscreen: Children 6 months of age and older

  • Apply 15 – 30 minutes BEFORE sun exposure
  • Apply a generous amount evenly to all sun exposed skin (don’t forget the ears, feet and back of the neck).
  • For Spray Formulations: Spray evenly on skin and then rub in. Avoid spraying the face directly or breathing in the spray. Instead spray the sunscreen on your hands and then apply to the face, neck and ears
  • Be careful to avoid getting sunscreen in the eyes, especially in young children
  • Reapply your sunscreen every 2 hours or more often if your child has been sweating, swimming or recently towel dried.

Young Infants: Under 6 months of age

  • Infants less than 6 months old are more at risk for sunburn due to their thinner more sensitive skin and should be kept out of direct sunlight and in areas shaded by items such as beach umbrellas, tents or canopies.
  • Dress them in lightweight long sleeve shirts and pants made of cotton or other fabrics with a tight weave.
  • Use a wide brimmed hat that shades the ears, face and the back of the neck.
  • It’s OK to apply a minimum amount of sunscreen to any remaining sun-exposed areas such as the back of the hands and feet.

More Helpful Tips

  • The suns rays reflect off of sand, water, snow and concrete and are strongest between 10 am and 4 pm.
  • Use sunglasses with 99% UV protection.
  • For kids with sensitive skin, sunscreens containing Zinc Oxide or Titanium Dioxide may be good choices.
  • Protect the lips with lip balms containing SPF.
  • Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated. Infants less than 6 months should only be given breast milk or formula. Check with your child’s Pediatrician about appropriate amounts of water/100% juice for older infants.
  • Check the expiration date on your sunscreen.
  • If your sunscreen appears discolored, throw it out.

This is for information and education purposes only and should not replace official medical advice. Please always consult with your doctor.

Andrea D. Burns, M.D