
It’s also gentle on your pores, which is why mineral sunscreen is the ideal choice for babies or anyone with sensitive skin.
#Kids sunscreen skin
In sunscreens, zinc oxide absorbs, reflects and scatters UVA and UVB rays It helps protect the skin from the harmful effects of the sun. Zinc oxide is a naturally-sourced mineral widely used as an additive in numerous materials and products including certain types of sunscreens, ointments, adhesives, and foods. These are the most deceptive as we’re less likely to wear sunscreen when we don’t see the sun.
#Kids sunscreen windows
Even on a cloudy day in the winter, UVA rays can even penetrate through the clouds and through windows even if we don’t see them. The truth is that UVA rays are present during all daylight hours and even throughout the winter months. They can contribute to signs of premature aging, such as wrinkles, as well as skin cancer and hyperpigmentation.Ī common misconception is that we are safe from UVA rays in the winter or if we are sitting indoors or in the shade. UVA rays are weaker than UVB rays, but penetrate more deeply into the skin’s layers. UVA rays are long wavelengths and constitute approximately 90 to 95 percent of the rays that reach us.

The intensity of UVB varies by season, location and time of day. UVB rays affect the skin’s outer layer and are the main cause of sunburn, and also play a key role in the development of skin cancer. UVB rays are shorter wavelengths carrying that radiation that make up about five to 10 percent of the rays that reach us. UV radiation is a form of electromagnetic energy that comes from many sources, such as lasers, black lights, tanning beds and, most importantly, the sun. What is the difference between UVA and UVB rays? Opting for a mineral-based cream is the gentlest option possible and is therefore often the top choice for parents with young children. Mineral sunscreens use zinc oxide as their active ingredient rather than the artificial elements that are found in your typical sunscreen product, too, which makes them even more appealing to parents. That said, when selecting a sunscreen for a baby or toddler, you’ll want to lean toward a cream that is designed specifically for ultra-sensitive skin. Which sunscreen is safest for babies?Īll unscented sunscreen is safe for babies. If your child is over the age of 3, you’ll still want to limit prolonged exposure since their skin is still more vulnerable to harmful UV rays. Generally, however, infants should stay out of the sun and wear sun-protective clothing. Products like Coppertone Pure & Simple Mineral Sunscreen are specifically designed to keep young kids safe-but it’s important to note that many doctors recommend avoiding all sun exposure for children younger than 6 months old. Just to be safe, you should always consult your pediatrician before using sunscreen on a young child-especially if they are under 6 months of age. This may also apply to your baby-but it really depends on exactly how young they are, since their skin is still in the early stages of development, and therefore extremely sensitive. Wearing sunscreen is a given for people of almost all ages and skin types, including men, women and children. From what age can I start to use sunscreen on my baby? An SPF cream with a protection factor of 30 will effectively extend skin protection against the sun to approximately two and a half hours. A sun protection factor of 50 is the ideal recommendation, however, babies and children should use a sun protection factor of at least 30. The use of sunscreen is therefore essential whenever children are exposed to the sun as this will extend this period of protection. At this early stage, a baby’s skin can generally protect itself for approximately 5 minutes before it starts being affected. How does sunscreen work to protect babies’ skin?īabies are extremely sensitive to sunlight as they have not yet developed a natural barrier that will eventually protect them from the sun’s UV rays.

#Kids sunscreen how to
Here’s what you need to know and how to choose the best option for your little one. Therefore, using special sunscreen for babies is essential to protect them from damaging UV rays which could lead to sun damage and skin issues later in life. Their young, delicate skin should be protected whenever possible while spending time outdoors. Direct sun radiation is especially risky for babies.
