Correct Application of Sunscreen for Children

Follow these guidelines to correctly apply sunscreen:

• Apply 15-30 minutes before going outside

• Apply generously

• Reapply regularly

• Cover all exposed areas of skin

• Wear lip balm with at least SPF 15

Apply Sunscreen 15-30 Minutes Before Your Child Goes Outside

Sunscreen should be applied at least 15 minutes before going outside. There are two reasons for this:

1. Chemical sunscreens need several minutes to soak into the skin to give full protection.

2. It limits sun exposure before and during sunscreen application.

Sunscreen can be applied more than 30 minutes before going outside. However, you may need to reapply it if the child rubs or washes it off before he goes outside.

Apply Generously

One of the biggest problems with sunscreen is that people rarely use enough to get the full protection of the SPF rating. To get full protection, sunscreen must be applied in a thick layer and reapplied at least every 2 hours. A thick layer of sunscreen feels "goopy" when you first put it on. And it should take a few minutes to absorb into the skin.

Adults need to apply at least 1 ounce of sunscreen per application. That means a 4-ounce bottle should last an adult only 4 applications! There is no similar guideline for children. So, just make sure it's thick and goopy!

Reapply Regularly

Reapply a thick coat of sunscreen at least every 2 hours. Also reapply right away after water activities, sweating or drying off with a towel. Even waterproof sunscreens should be reapplied at least every 2 hours.

Cover All Exposed Areas of Skin

Sunscreen should be applied to any areas of skin that will be exposed to the sun. For instance, if a child is wearing a hat, full-length clothes and closed-toe shoes, only her face, neck, hands and wrists need sunscreen. If a child takes off her jacket once she goes outside, apply sunscreen to her arms.

If your child will be playing in a sprinkler or pool and wearing swimsuits, most of their body will need to be covered with sunscreen. And don't forget their feet!