Staying safe in the sun is a non-negotiable for all ages, but it's particularly important to make sure your little ones are covered when it comes to SPF, especially in the warmer months. Not only is younger skin more sensitive to irritants, but it also contains less melanin, the pigment responsible for skin colouring, which naturally provides us with a small level of protection from the sun, but wearing broad spectrum SPF is essential. Therefore, when picking the right sun care for your children, it's important to look for something that offers a high level of protection and is free from any harmful ingredients that could irritate their delicate skin.
According to Dr Ifeoma Ejikeme, skin expert and medical director, SPF should be applied to infants from the age of 6 months, making sure to keep them out of direct sunlight before this. She advises wearing SPF 30 or above on all exposed skin and reapplying "every 2-4 hours if you are outside. As a minimum during the winter months, ensure sunscreen is worn in the morning and, if you are outside all day, re-apply after 4 hours."
What type of sun protection is best for my child?
When looking for a sun cream suitable for children, aim for one that uses mineral protectants, such as zinc oxide and titanium oxide, rather than chemical alternatives that can be too harsh on younger skin. "Ultraviolet radiation from the sun includes UVA, UVB and UVC. UVC is filtered by clouds but UVA and UVB can penetrate though clouds and can even be reflected from the ground," explains Dr Ifeoma. To ensure your little one is completely protected, opt for a broad-spectrum SPF that will shield against all types of harmful rays.
Mineral-based ingredients to look for:
- Zinc Oxide
- Titanium Dioxide
- Ingredients to avoid:
- Oxybenzone
- Avobenzone
- Octisalate
- Octocrylene
- Homosalate
- Octinoxate
Although it's advised that those under 6 months should be kept out of direct sunlight where possible, for older children, keeping still in the shade isn't always an option! We've picked our top 5 baby and toddler-friendly sun creams and lotions that can be used by the whole family so that you can all enjoy some fun in the sun, without the worry.
La Roche-Posay Anthelios UVMune 400 Dermo-Pediatrics Kids Ultra Light Invinsible Fluid SPF 50+
A lifesaver for those little ones who won't sit still! If you don't like the greasy feel of some traditional sun creams, this La Roche-Posay formula offers high spectrum protection in a quick and easy-to-apply lightweight fluid. The invisible blend coats the skin in sweat and water-resistant protection without leaving any residue or white marks, ideal for mess and fuss-free application. Designed with the gentlest ingredients, the sunscreen doesn't contain any fragrances and can be used on the whole family.
Perfect for little faces, the innovative facial sunscreen applies protection with just one swipe for super easy application. Formulated with Fernblock®+ Antioxidant Technology, it defends gentle skin against UVA and UVB rays while also offering antioxidant benefits that shield from environmental pollutants. Water and sweat-resistant, re-apply on your toddlers frequently, especially after pool dips, for hydrating sun protection.
Housed in an easy-to-use spray bottle, this high protection SPF formula mists effortlessly and quickly on to your child’s skin, giving them long lasting protection from UVA and UVB rays. Not only that, but the formula is also infused with Avène Thermal Spring Water to help protect, hydrate and soothe sensitive skin without compromising on enjoying the warmer weather!
A classic must-have in every holiday suitcase, the Garnier Kids SPF50+ provides ultimate protection against harmful UV rays, especially in sunnier months. Watch your little ones enjoy their time on the beach knowing that they’re protected with a water and sand resistant formula that’s easy to apply and absorbs quickly, for maximum sandcastle building time!
Don't let sunburn stress you out this summer. With this Very High SPF 50+ Lotion made especially for kids, your little ones will be protected from UVA and UVB rays for hours. The non-sticky formula absorbs quickly and contains antioxidant rich ingredients that guard against skin damage and environmental aggressors.
Shop all children’s SPF.
