Sunscreen

General Sun Safety

  • It is best to limit sun exposure between 10:00 am and 4:00 pm when UV rays are strongest.
  • When kids are outdoors at the hottest time of day, ensure they take frequent breaks in the shade.
  • Good clothing options include lightweight material, long sleeves and pants, and a brimmed hat to cover the neck.
  • Wear sunglasses with at least 99% UV protection.

Choosing a Sunscreen

  • Use a sunscreen that says broad-spectrum on the label.
    • That means it will screen out both UVB and UVA rays.
  • Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15.

Types of Sunscreen

Chemical
  • Chemical sunscreens work by creating a chemical by changing UV rays into heat, then releasing that heat from the skin. 
    • They are often referred to as chemical or organic absorbers. 
  • Look for the active ingredients of oxybenzone, octinoxate, octisalate, and avobenzone.
    • If possible, avoid the sunscreen ingredient oxybenzone because of concerns about mild hormonal properties. 
  • However, using any sunscreen is better than not using sunscreen at all.
Physical 
  • Mineral-based sunscreens work by sitting on top of the skin to deflect and scatter damaging UV rays. 
    • They are often referred to as physical blockers. 
  • Look for the active ingredients of titanium dioxide or zinc oxide.
  • Mineral-based sunscreens are often preferred for children for several reasons.
    • Naturally broad spectrum—offers protection against both UVA and UVB rays.
    • Mineral-based sunscreens protect from the sun as soon as applied. 
      • You do not have to wait 15-20 minutes as is needed for chemical sunscreens.
    • Mineral-based sunscreens are less likely to irritate the skin, making it better for sensitive skin like baby skin.

Applying Sunscreen

  • Apply generously! 
  • Use enough sunscreen to cover all exposed areas, especially the face, nose, ears, feet, hands, and even the backs of the knees. 
  • Rub it in well (spray sunscreen included). 
  • Put chemical sunscreen on 15 to 30 minutes before going outdoors. 
    • It needs time to absorb into the skin.
  • Mineral sunscreen is effective immediately after application.
  • Use sunscreen any time you or your child spend time outdoors. 
    • Remember that you can get sunburned even on cloudy days because up to 80% of the sun's UV rays can get through the clouds.
  • Reapply sunscreen every 2 hours and after swimming, sweating, or drying off with a towel.

Sunscreen and Sun Safety for Babies

  • We try to avoid direct sunlight on the skin for babies younger than 6 months of age. 
  • Keep babies in shaded areas whenever possible.
    • If there are areas of skin that the sun still touches directly you should use sunscreen (at least 15 SPF) even for babies under 6 months old.
  • Remember to cover all exposed areas of a baby's skin, including the face, back of the hands, back of the neck, tips of the ears, and tops of the feet.