If you are planning to take your children on holiday, ensuring their sun safety becomes increasingly vital. While drugstores offer a wide variety of sunscreen options, it can be challenging to determine the best choice for your kids. The key to protecting your little ones is selecting the right sunblock and minimizing their sun exposure. Keep reading to discover common sunscreen mistakes that parents often make.
#1 Don’t apply enough
The common mistake is that some parents don’t get the right sunscreen quantity. It totally increases the risk of sunburn and skin damage to your children. In general, you should apply at least two tablespoons (about 10ml) of sunscreen to cover the exposed parts of your body. You should ensure the important parts, such as nose, ears, neck hands and feet, are fully covered by the sun sunscreen protection. For smaller children, less quantity amount is acceptable.
#2 Only apply once
It’s healthy and important for children to play outside during the summer. Most parents remember to apply sunscreen before outdoor activities, but few repeat the application every one to two hours. It is recommended to apply sunscreen 30 minutes before your child is exposed to the sun and to reapply it every one to two hours. You should also continue applying sunscreen even if your child will be in the water.
#3 Spray sunscreen
The spray formula is very convenient and can easily cover your skin. However, when you spray it, there is a risk that your child may inhale harmful chemicals. Therefore, it is better to choose a lotion-based sunscreen, which can both moisturize and protect your children’s skin at the same time.
#4 Put on a baby under 6 months
Keep in mind that you should not apply sunscreen to children under 6 months. It is recommended to use sunscreen only for those who are 6 months or older. Infants under 6 months should be limited in their sun exposure and covered with lightweight clothing to protect their sensitive skin.