Toddler Sunscreen and Safety Tips

01 May Toddler Sunscreen and Safety Tips

If you are going to be outdoors with your toddler this summer, it is essential that you are protecting their skin. While certain conditions may not look sunscreen-worthy to the average adult, toddlers have very delicate, sensitive skin and they need extra protection against the sun.

It is so important for parents to understand some of the basic toddler sunscreen and safety tips for when their little one goes outdoors. Now that nice weather is finally upon us, chances are your child will be running and playing outside more than ever, and it is important that they are staying protected while doing so.

Here are a few important sunscreen and safety tips to remember this season so your toddler can continue to go outside, get some fresh air, and stay safe while they do it.

1. Prevention is the best Form of Protection- There is no better way to keep your toddler protected from the effects of the sun than by staying inside or in the shade during peak sun hours. The sun is strongest between 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM, so do your best to try to keep your toddler out of direct exposure during those times.
2. Start with the Right Product- You need to know what type of sunscreen to put on your child. The best approach is to use a formula that is designed specifically for children. These products tend to be more gentle on the skin. The label should say “broad spectrum,” which means it protects against both UVA and UVB rays. Use an SPF above 15 but below 50 for the best results. According to the Environmental Working Group, sunscreens with over 50 SPF don’t offer as much protection.
3. Know How Much Sunscreen to Apply- According to the American Academy of Dermatology, the average person only puts on about half as much sunscreen as they should. As parents, you need to remember this when applying sunscreen to your toddler. About ½ an ounce of sunscreen should cover your toddler’s body. Make sure to apply generously with a nice even layer over their entire body.
4. Don’t Forget About the Lips- Lips can burn too, especially on toddlers. Make sure that you apply a lip balm that has SPF in it, and reapply it regularly, especially after your child eats or drinks.
5. Know When to Apply- You should apply your child’s sunscreen at least 15 minutes before they go outside for the best protection. You even need to apply it when it is cloudy out. Just because the sun is hiding behind the clouds doesn’t mean that your child can’t get burned. After that, reapply sunscreen every two hours. Reapply more often if your child is sweating, toweling off or in the water.

If you are looking for more information on proper sun safety tips for your toddler, contact the experts here at Continuum Pediatrics by calling 817-617-8600. We can help answer all of your sunscreen and sun safety questions, so you can make sure your child is always protected when they go outside.