Best sunscreen for kids how to#
Best sunscreen for kids skin#
Best sunscreen for kids free#

The latter indicates that the product's UVA protection factor is greater than or equal to a third of its SPF level. Some sun creams use the PA system (PA+, PA++ and PA+++) while others use the general EU UVA logo (the acronym UVA displayed in a circle). However, it's worth remembering that the star rating is a system developed (and owned) by Boots and so not all sun creams will display it. The maximum SPF level is 50+ and the maximum star rating is 5*. The SPF factor, which protects against UVB sun rays, is as important as the star rating on the bottle, which indicates level of protection against UVA rays.

Remember you'll also need to re-apply often, especially if swimming or playing and working up a sweat. Sun cream should be a last resort for areas that are difficult to cover,’ says Abbott. However, it’s important that parents don’t rely on sun cream as the only method of sun protection for their child. Most baby and child sun creams provide an SPF of 50 or 50+, and given that many people under-apply sun cream, using a factor 50 sun cream will provide more of a time buffer for being out in the sun compared with factor 30 sun cream. 3-5 is moderate, and anything above 6 is high or very high. The UV index forecast, which runs from 1 to 11, identifies the strength of the ultraviolet (UV) radiation coming from the sun at a particular place on a particular day. But as a general rule, if the UV index is above 3, then high factor (SPF 30 or higher) broad spectrum (with UVA protection) is advised,’ says Abbott.

Best sunscreen for kids skin#

‘You might want to consider testing any new sun cream on a small patch of skin first, such as the inner elbow, before using it on the face.’ What SPF factor sun cream should you use on your child?

Best sunscreen for kids free#

‘Sun creams with a short ingredient list and those that are fragrance free or described as hypoallergenic, would be a good place to start,’ says Abbott. Sun cream reviews - see which kid's SPF50+ sun creams we recommend and the best SPF30 options for adults, too Best sun creams for children with sensitive skin conditions To pass our UVA test, UVA protection provided must be a minimum of one third of the SPF (the standard for any product carrying the UVA seal). SPF and UVA - Products passing these tests met their claimed SPF and provided enough UVA protection in standard test conditions. Table notes - Best Buys need to pass both our SPF and UVA lab tests, and be rated as very easy to apply (4 stars or more) by our consumer panel.

Best sunscreen for kids how to#

‘However, if going outside for any length of time is likely and you’re worried, it's best to be prepared and apply a kids sun cream.’ Video: how to use sun cream safely on kids ‘Ultimately, babies shouldn’t be out in the sun at all, they should be covered as much as possible whenever possible,’ says Pyle. In fact, labelling on sun creams should state that babies and children be kept out of direct sunlight. Ideally, babies shouldn’t need to wear sun creams as they ought to be kept in the shade and dressed in light, loose clothing that covers them up. We’ve also spoken to child skincare and sun cream experts for their advice on keeping your little ones protected in the sun.Įat well, live better and stay healthy - sign up to our free monthly food and health newsletter Should my baby wear sun cream? Our independent lab tests reveal the kids sun creams you can rely on to provide good sun protection. Sun cream is undoubtedly an important step, but it’s just one part of protecting your child from the sun. Keeping your baby or child safe in the sun is absolutely vital, as significant exposure can increase their risk of skin cancer in later life.