A Dermatologist’s Ultimate Guide to the Best Sunscreens for Kids
Ensuring our children are protected from the sun’s harmful rays should be a top priority for every parent. With so many sunscreen options available, I know it can be overwhelming to choose the right one. Fear not! In this comprehensive guide, I’ll explore the best sunscreens for kids – ones that I’m happy to use both as a dad and a board-certified dermatologist and skin cancer surgeon.
Importance of Sun Protection for Kids
Before getting into specific sunscreen recommendations, it’s crucial to understand why sun protection is vital for children. Young, delicate skin is more susceptible to sunburn and long-term damage from UV radiation. Having more than five sunburns DOUBLES your risk for melanoma. (1) And sun damage is cumulative – about 23 percent of lifetime exposure occurs before the age of 18. (2) Sunscreens play a pivotal role in safeguarding their skin against harmful effects, including sunburn, premature aging, and even skin cancer.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Sunscreen for Your Kids
- SPF (Sun Protection Factor): Opt for a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 40 or higher to shield against both UVA and UVB rays.
- Ingredients: Look for sunscreens formulated with gentle, non-toxic ingredients, such as zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, to minimize the risk of skin irritation.
- Water Resistance: Choose water-resistant sunscreens, especially for active kids who enjoy swimming or playing in water.
- Fragrance-Free: Fragrances can sometimes cause allergic reactions in children with sensitive skin, so opt for fragrance-free formulas whenever possible.
- Ease of Application: Select sunscreens that are easy to apply and won’t leave a greasy or sticky residue on the skin.
Dermatology Providers’ Top Sunscreens for Kids
Mineral Sticks
· Baby Bum SPF 50 Mineral Sunscreen Face Stick
· Baby Bare Republic Mineral SPF 55 Sunscreen Stick
· Cerave Mineral Sunscreen Stick
· Blue Lizard Baby Mineral Sunscreen Stick
· Supergoop Sunnyscreen 100% Mineral Stick
· Thinksport Kids Sunscreen Stick SPF30
· Neutrogena Sheer Zinc Oxide Kids Mineral Sunscreen Stick
· Aveeno Kids Continuous Protection Zinc Oxide Mineral Sunscreen Stick
Whole-Body Sunscreen for Kids
· Blue Lizard Kids Mineral Sunscreens
· Bare Republic Adventure-Proof Mineral SPF 50
· Think Kids Safe Sunscreen SPF 50+ or Think Kids Sheer Spray
· Babyganics Mineral Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50+
Tips for Proper Sunscreen Application
- Apply sunscreen generously at least 15 minutes before sun exposure.
- Reapply sunscreen every two hours, or more frequently if your child is swimming or sweating.
- Pay extra attention to areas prone to sunburn, such as the face, ears, neck, and shoulders.
- Encourage your child to wear protective clothing, sunglasses, and hats for added sun protection.
Investing in the right sunscreen for your child is essential for safeguarding their skin against the sun's harmful rays. By choosing from the best sunscreens for kids and following proper application techniques, you can ensure your little ones stay safe, comfortable, and protected during their outdoor adventures.
Citations
1. Pfahlberg A, Kölmel KF, Gefeller O. Timing of excessive ultraviolet radiation and melanoma: epidemiology does not support the existence of a critical period of high susceptibility to solar ultraviolet radiation-induced melanoma. Br J Dermatol 2001; 144:3:471-475.
2. Gloster HM, Neal K. Skin cancer in skin of color. J Am Acad Dermatol 2006; 55:741-60.