What's The Best Sunscreen for Children?

You already know that you need to select a broad spectrum UVA/UVB blocking sunscreen with a minimum SPF of 30 and use it every day, year round.

But what about your children? Does the same apply to them? This is an easy one, the answer is yes!

The first step in exercising sun smarts is to practice sun avoidance. That doesn’t mean never venture outdoors – what fun would that be? But it does mean the following:

• Avoid being in the sun between the hours of 10 am and 4 pm when the sun’s rays (UVB in particular) are more intesnse
• Seek shade where possible
• Cover up with a hat, sunglasses and protective clothing when you can’t.

You do need UVB rays to manufacture Vitamin D, but experts maintain that you only need to expose your arms or legs for 10 –15 minutes each day to benefit. And in the winter, consider supplementing as the rays in many parts of North America just aren’t strong enough.

There isn’t much difference between sunscreens manufactured for adults and those for children, though those manufactured for kids may be more water resistant and contain fewer sensitizing ingredients.

Here are some tips in choosing a sunscreen for your little ones:

1. Opt for a minimum of SPF 30. Go higher if you can. A recent report revealed that the majority of us apply far less sunscreen than is actually needed giving us protection that is about 20 to 50% of the label. For example if your sunscreen has an SPF of 60 and you don’t apply adequately, you’re only getting an SPF of between 12 and 30!
2. Choose a product with effective UVA and UVB blocking agents
3. Look for fragrance free products if possible. They tend to be less irritating, especially important for little people.
4. Choose water resistant formulations – we all know how much kids love to play in water and sand.
5. Choose a formulation that is easy to apply – for some it will be a spray, for others a gel. Whatever works best for you. 

Product recommendations

Here are some effective UVA/UVB blocking formulations you may wish to consider: 

	Anthelios Dermo Pediatrics SPF 50 Spray  – highly water resistant and fragrance free. Easy to apply. Mexoryl SX and Mexoryl XL.
	Anthelios Dermo Pediatrics SPF 50+ Lotion – multi – water resistant to sand, sweat and water. Mexoryl SX and Mexoryl XL.
	Ombrelle SPF 45 Kids – water resistant. With Mexoryl SX as found in the Anthelios line of sun protection products.
	Ombrelle SPF 30 Kids – water resistant. With Mexoryl SX as found in the Anthelios line of sun protection products.

The only part I can’t advise about? How to keep them still while applying! Good luck.