If there’s one product that every parent should buy at some point – it’s kids sunscreen. Of course, most Mums and Dads have a basic awareness of the need for children to wear sun protection, but there are quite a few important aspects of the product that aren’t quite as well-known.
That’s something we aim to address now as we give you five surprising facts about sun lotion, giving you a more rounded understanding of what to look out for when buying your next bottle.
What You Might Not Know About Kids Sunscreen
What we’re talking about here is not esoteric knowledge exactly. Rather, it’s a bunch of facts that pass some people by, meaning they end up buying the wrong option. So, let’s take a look.
#1 – SPF Numbers Can Be a Bit Misleading
When you look at SPF numbers on the bottle, it’s natural to assume, for example, that an SPF 30 offers twice as much protection as an SPF 15. While there is a little truth to that statement, it’s not in the way many think. SPF 15 lets you stay out in the sun 15x longer than if you didn’t wear sunscreen and SPF 30, 30x longer.
However, in terms of UV protection, there’s not a lot in it. In this regard, an SPF 15 gives your child 93% UV protection, whereas an SPF 30 gives you 97%. A little misleading, right?
#2 – Some Sunscreens Don’t Protect From All Types of UV Rays.
Believe it or not, there are some child products that don’t protect you from every type of UV rays. You see, there are both UVA and UVB rays that can hurt your child’s skin, but if you don’t buy a broad-spectrum lotion, you’re only safeguarding them against one of them.
#3 – Not All Sunscreens Are Suitable for Kids
While it might feel like a good idea sometimes to slap on some of your adult sunscreen, it’s not always a good idea. Children’s skin is more sensitive than adults, making them more prone to irritation from certain chemicals found in sunscreens. Kids’ products are formulated to be gentler for a reason.
#4 – Sunscreen Can Expire
As is the case with many types of skincare products, sunscreens have an expiry date, so if you haven’t used that bottle you’ve had in the closet for a year or two, you can’t assume that it’s going to be ok. The active ingredients inside can degrade over time, especially when exposed to high temperatures or direct sunlight. Always check the expiry date on your sunscreen bottle and store it in a cool, dry place.
#5 – Application Matters More Than You Think
It’s not enough to just own the best sunscreen for your kids – you have to apply it right, too. Most people only use half the amount they’re supposed to, so make sure you use about two tablespoons full of the stuff to cover the entire body. It’s a little less with mineral brands, but either way, make sure all areas are covered, or you risk sunburn.
Knowing Everything You Need to About Kids Sunscreen
When you make yourself aware of these lesser-known facts, you can get much more from your sunscreen and give your kids the best possible protection. These might seem like minor points we’ve raised to some, but they can have a big bearing on your child’s skin health.
So, be sure to check expiration dates, and get the right SPF (At least 30) and broad-spectrum products so that you can know you’re doing everything you can to keep your kids safe in the sun.