While spending time outdoors in the fresh air has its benefits, children and adults alike require protection from the harmful rays of the sun. In fact, Georgia State University explains that children receive 80 percent of their lifetime sun exposure before the age 18. For this reason, children who are 6 years of age and older require an application of an SPF 15 or higher sunscreen before heading outdoors.
Misconceptions
Your child’s sunscreen may be doing more harm than good. Some popular brands of sunscreen contain chemicals that may be toxic to your child. Vanderbilt University says that some of these chemicals may produce a carcinogenic reaction when exposed to sunlight. Vanderbilt goes on to note that proof of such a reaction is still under investigation. Benzophenone, benzophenone-3, avobenzone and oxybenzone, chemicals contained in many sunscreens, are just a few of the chemicals that researchers suspect of releasing free radicals into the skin when exposed to ultraviolet light.
Effects
Whether designed for children or adults, chemical sunscreens work by penetrating the skin. Once absorbed into your child’s skin, a chemical sunscreen can enter the bloodstream, as well. According to MayoClinic.com, the chemicals in the sunscreen, be they avobenzone, benzophenone or oxybenzone, enter the pores of the skin and absorb UVA and UVB rays upon penetration. This is not the case with physical sunscreens, which absorb sunlight rays prior to penetration.
Expert Insight
Sunscreens that contain zinc oxide or titanium dioxide appear to be the better choice for children. Pediatric dermatologist Patricia Treadwell recommends a physical sunscreen that contains zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, which sits on the surface of the skin instead of penetrating it. Physical sunscreen also offers broad-spectrum UVA and UVB protection. Unlike chemical sunscreens that require an application 30 minutes prior to heading out into the sun, physical sunscreens begin working as soon as they hit the skin.
Consideration
There are other ways to keep your child safe when he is out in the sun. If you have concerns about the safety of sunscreen and prefer to avoid the use of any chemicals at all, Healthy Child suggests having your child wear a wide-brimmed hat to protect his face. Dressing your child in clothing made of natural fibers will help keep him cool while allowing his skin to breathe. Natural fibers will also protect his skin from sunburn.
Warnings
It is important to note that some children are allergic to zinc oxide. According to KidsHealth, symptoms of allergy include hives, rash, coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath and swelling of the lips, tongue and face. If your child exhibits any of these symptoms, discontinue use and seek medical attention immediately. Zinc oxide is for topical use only. Do not allow your child to ingest zinc oxide. Avoid getting the zinc oxide in your child’s nose, mouth or eyes during application.
