At Park Pediatrics, we love to see kids playing outside, soaking up fresh air and sunshine. But too much sun exposure—especially without protection—can lead to painful sunburns, skin damage, and increased risk for skin cancer later in life. One of the best ways to protect your child’s skin is by using sunscreen (sunblock) properly.
Why Does Sunscreen Matter for Kids?
Children’s skin is more sensitive to the harmful effects of ultraviolet (UV) rays than adult skin. Even a few serious sunburns during childhood can increase the risk of skin cancer later in life. Sunscreen acts as a protective barrier, helping to block or absorb these damaging rays.
Choosing the Right Sunscreen
Look for these key features when picking sunscreen for your child:
- Broad-spectrum protection (protects against both UVA and UVB rays)
- SPF 30 or higher
- Water-resistant (especially for swimming or sweating)
- Mineral-based ingredients like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide (gentler on sensitive skin and less likely to cause irritation)
For babies under 6 months old, it’s best to avoid sunscreen and instead keep them in the shade or cover their skin with protective clothing and hats.
Sunblock for Children with Brown and Darker Skin Tones
A common myth is that children with brown or darker skin tones don’t need sunscreen—but that’s not true. While melanin provides some natural protection from UV rays, it’s not enough to prevent sun damage or skin cancer.
Kids with darker skin are still at risk for:
- Sunburns (which may feel more like tenderness or peeling rather than visible redness)
- Hyperpigmentation (dark spots or uneven skin tone from sun exposure)
- Skin cancer, including melanomas that can be harder to detect on darker skin
What to use:
- Choose a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher sunscreen just like for lighter skin tones.
- Mineral sunscreens may leave a white cast on darker skin; look for newer formulas labeled “sheer” or “invisible zinc” to avoid this.
- Sunscreen sticks and tinted mineral sunscreens may blend better on deeper skin tones.
The same sun safety rules apply: apply sunscreen 15-30 minutes before sun exposure, reapply every 2 hours, and use protective clothing and hats.
How to Apply Sunscreen Correctly
- Apply sunscreen 15-30 minutes before sun exposure.
- Use enough to cover all exposed skin (about a shot glass full for an older child).
- Don’t forget ears, back of the neck, tops of feet, and hands!
- Reapply every 2 hours—or immediately after swimming or sweating.
- Even on cloudy days, up to 80% of UV rays can reach the skin, so sunscreen is still important.
Other Ways to Protect Your Child from the Sun:
In addition to sunscreen, these strategies can help:
- Seek shade between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. when the sun’s rays are strongest.
- Have your child wear a wide-brimmed hat and UV-protective sunglasses.
- Choose lightweight, long-sleeved clothing for extended outdoor time.
Common Questions from Parents
“Is spray sunscreen safe?”
Sprays can be convenient, but they should be used carefully. Avoid spraying directly on the face (instead, spray on hands and rub onto the face), and be cautious about inhalation. Always rub sprays in to ensure even coverage.
“Can my child still get vitamin D while wearing sunscreen?”
Yes! Sunscreen doesn’t block all UV rays, and kids can still make vitamin D with sun protection. If you’re concerned, talk to your pediatrician about vitamin D supplementation.
“What if my child has sensitive skin or eczema?”
Look for fragrance-free, hypoallergenic, mineral-based sunscreens. Test a small area first to check for irritation.
Dr. Lavanya Sithanandam
Medical Director, Park Pediatrics
