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SUNSCREEN

Sunscreen can help protect the skin from sunburn and some skin cancers but only if used correctly. Keep in mind that sunscreen should be used for sun protection, not as a reason to stay in the sun longer.

 

HOW TO PICK 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 a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 15 (up to SPF 50). An SPF of 15 or 30 should be fine for most people. More research studies are needed to test if sunscreen with more than SPF 50 offers any extra protection.

• Mineral- based sunscreen liked zinc oxide are preferable to chemical-based sunscreens like oxybenzone. To avoid inhalation, use lotions or spray onto hands before applying to child. 

• For sensitive areas of the body, such as the nose, cheeks, tops of the ears, and shoulders, choose a sunscreen with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. These products may stay visible on the skin even after you rub them in, and some come in fun colors that children enjoy.

 

HOW TO APPLY SUNSCREEN

• Use enough sunscreen to cover all exposed areas, especially the face, nose, ears, feet, hands, and even backs of the knees. Rub it in well.

• Put sunscreen on 15 to 30 minutes before going outdoors. It needs time to absorb into the skin.

• Use sunscreen any time you or your child spends time outdoors. Remember that you can get sunburn even on cloudy days because up to 80% of the sun's UV rays can get through the clouds. Also, UV rays can bounce back from water, sand, snow, and concrete, so make sure you're protected.

• Reapply sunscreen every 2 hours and after swimming, sweating, or drying off with a towel. Because most people use too little sunscreen, make sure to apply a generous amount.

 

SUNSCREEN FOR BABIES

For babies younger than 6 months. Use sunscreen on small areas of the body, such as the face, if protective clothing and shade are not available.

For babies older than 6 months. Apply to all areas of the body, but be careful around the eyes. If your baby rubs sunscreen into her eyes, wipe her eyes and hands clean with a damp cloth. If the sunscreen irritates her skin, try a different brand or sunscreen with titanium dioxide or zinc oxide. If a rash develops, talk with your child's doctor.

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HOW TO SOOTHE SUNBURN

Here are 5 ways to relieve discomfort from mild sunburn.

• Give your child water to replace lost fluids.

• Use cool water to help your child's skin feel better.

• Give your child pain medicine to relieve painful sunburns. (For a baby 6 months or younger, give acetaminophen. For a child older than 6 months, give either acetaminophen or ibuprofen.)

• Only use medicated lotions if your child's doctor says it is OK.

• Keep your child out of the sun until the sunburn is fully healed.

 

​​© 2019 American Academy of Pediatrics. All rights reserved.

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