Sunscreen For Your Toddler This Summer

Summer has stepped in full blaze. The sun is scorching hot and the humidity and sun burns are beginning to take a toll on everyone across the country. Amidst the glare of the heat, it is imperative to ensure that your toddler is not adversely affected by the sun or the heat. Sunscreens are hence the perfect protectors for your little one. There are many sunscreens that are marketed as children’s sunscreen, however, there are certain things to look out for and keep in mind while purchasing a sunscreen for your toddler.

1. Most dermatologists prefer physical of chemical free sunscreens that contain zinc oxide and titanium oxide. These ingredients tend to remain on the skin and are not absorbed. However, it is hard to tell how your child may react to the sunscreen, hence it is best to do a test application of the lotion in small area, say for example under the arms to see how the child’s skin reacts to the sunscreen
2. Purchase a ‘broad spectrum’ sunscreen lotion, which means that it can protect against both the UVA and UVB rays. Exposure to UVA rays can lead to skin diseases and skin aging, and UVB rays are often considered to be the main cause of skin cancer
3. The Sun Protection Factor or SPF should be at least 15 and anywhere from 15 to 30
4. Avoid using sunscreen that is also an insect repellant. It is best to apply an insect repellant cream separately

Once you have got a sunscreen for your toddler, it is now time to apply it on your child. Children tend to be all over the place and hence it is important to make sure that you apply the sunscreen correctly on your child. Some tips to keep in mind:

1. Apply the sunscreen at least 15 to 20 minutes before stepping outside. Reapply the lotion in two hours especially when your toddler is sweating or is inside the water. Many sunscreens claim to be water proof, however, do not take any chances and reapply the lotion when your child is playing in water
2. Do not get fooled by the clouds. Even if it is cloudy you can apply the sunscreen since 80% of UV rays penetrate through the clouds too
3. The amount of sunscreen to be applied may vary; however, generally the best measurement to keep in mind is to use the amount of lotion that fits on your child’s tiny hand. Rub the lotion on the body; however, make sure to apply the sunscreen on sensitive areas behind the ears, the neck, back of the leg and top of the feet. Lips may also turn dry or crack during the summers and a SPF 15 lip balm can do the trick

Sunscreens will help protect your toddler from the harmful and harsh UV rays, however, there are basic guidelines that you can follow, such as, avoiding to go out during the peak hot hours (12-4), or letting your child play in the shade. Simple precautions, such as, making your child wear a sun cap or drinking water at regular intervals also help to reduce the chances of dehydration and minimize the exposure towards the sun.

Here is wishing you luck with your little one in trying to beat the heat!

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