Summer means time at the pool, hanging out in the backyard and lots of outdoor play. And with school about to let out (or did it for you already?), kids are going to be soaking up rays in general. To keep them safe from sunburn, skin damage and skin cancer, parents need to ensure that their kids wear sunscreen.
But choosing a sunscreen for children is not as easy as wandering into your local drugstore.
Lucky for us, the Environmental Working Group puts out a trusted annual guide to sunscreens to help you navigate the sunscreen aisle. We also got more tips about sunscreen from Jack Maypole, pediatrician for medically complex children at Boston Medical Center:
Spray or Lotion?
The use of spray sunscreens remains controversial. Applying a spray without children inhaling the unhealthy ingredients can be difficult. Further, it can be difficult to get even, sufficient coverage with a spray. Sunscreen lotions and creams provide more even coverage than sprays and tend to be absorbed less through the skin, which is what we should aim for.
Ingredients to avoid
Oxybenzone (a hormone disruptor) and retinal palmitate (which may in fact amplify sun damage) should be avoided. The CDC recommends that families avoid the use of sunscreen products containing nanoparticles. We simply don’t know enough about their impact on children to recommend their use.
What to look for
Sunscreens containing the metal oxides (such as titanium or zinc) are the safest, but they may be pricey. They also add a whitish cast to the skin while applied. Choose sunscreens that protect against UVA and UVB rays. Look for terms like “broad spectrum” or “multi spectrum” on the label.
Which SPF?
Use a sunscreen in the 30-50 SPF range. Anything over 50 SPF does not clearly offer any additional benefit and may be harmful. Moreover, sunscreens with SPFs over 50 probably cost more.
How much?
Use sunscreen liberally, about enough to fill a shot glass. Be generous. You have to use it for it to work.
According to the Environmental Working Group, studies show that sunscreen users tend to use only one-fifth to one-half of the recommended amount of sunscreen.
How often?
In general, sunscreen should be reapplied every two hours and after swimming or vigorous activity. In spite of what labels may claim, all sunscreens wash off with sweating or bathing, thus diminishing their protection.
How old?
Sunscreen use is recommended for children 6 months and older. For babies under 6 months, experts recommend using other measures for sun protection.
Other measures could include keeping them in shady spots, using hats, sitting under beach umbrellas and wearing protective clothing and swimwear.
When to use?
As a general rule, if it’s bright enough outside that you wouldn’t need to use a flash on your camera you should be wearing sunscreen.
Sensitive skin
According to Lunder, since some children’s skin is especially sensitive to chemical allergens, test sunscreen by applying a small amount on the inside of your child’s wrist the day before you plan to use it. If an irritation or rash develops, try another product or ask your child’s doctor to suggest a product less likely to irritate your child’s skin.
When faced with the overwhelming choice of sunscreens available, read labels, avoid products with known or suspected health effects, and check out the Environmental Working Group’s annual guide to sunscreens for guidance and information on specific brands.
Most important, no matter which sunscreen you choose, remember to slop it on early and reapply it often.
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