Most parents now know the importance of putting sunscreen on their children in order to keep them from burning and having an increased risk of getting skin cancer later in life. However, it can be quite confusing trying to figure out just which is the best suntan lotion or sunscreen to use on your kids. There are so many different options available, and the terms on the labels can be confusing.
Significance
Both you and your children should use a sunscreen with at least SPF 15 whenever you go outside, even on cloudy days, according to the Family Doctor "Safe Sun" guidelines to reduce the risk of skin cancer. If you get burned when you are a child you are more likely to get skin cancer as an adult.
Types
Choosing a suntan lotion means deciding between sprays, lotions and powders with UVB protection, measured by SPF, of anywhere between 4 and 100, and UVA protection measured with one to four stars. These sunscreens will contain either chemical or natural ingredients in order to provide this protection, some of which experts consider safer than others.
Considerations
Not all sunscreens are created equal. Each year, the Environmental Working Group puts out a list of the safest sunscreens and rates many different options on safety and effectiveness. For 2010, their list of the best sunscreens includes only lotions with zinc and titanium as the effective ingredients because they note that the chemicals currently used are potential hormone disruptors. Vitamin A might increase the risk of cancers, and sprays and powders contain particles that may not be safe to inhale.
The American Cancer Society found that even with increased sunscreen use almost as many children are getting burned, and they are getting burned just as often. The theory is that they are not applying enough sunscreen or not applying it often enough.
Prevention/Solution
According to the Healthy Children website, you should choose a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15 with broad spectrum protection. The more stars for UVA protection the better. Physical blockers, those that don't get absorbed into the skin, are recommended for particularly sensitive areas like the ears and the nose. You should apply suntan lotion every day, even if it is cloudy, and apply it 30 minutes before going outdoors. It needs to be reapplied every 2 hours, regardless of the type of sunscreen you use.
Expert Insight
Although sunscreen is helpful to keep you and your kids from burning when you have to be in the sun, you are offered better and safer protection from clothing, hats, and sunglasses. You should try to avoid the sun between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., either by staying indoors or seeking the shade. When you do choose a sunscreen, try to stick to lotions that contain Mexoryl SX, zinc, titanium or avobenzene, and avoid those with vitamin A and oxybenzone, according to the Environmental Working Group.
