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Sun Protection Creams

Many brands of sun protection cream have special ranges for babies and toddlers. These

offer high protection and are suitable for sensitive skins. Some manufacturers also make
after-sun products which soothe and moisturise the skin.

Understanding the labels

UV stands for ultraviolet, the sun’s potentially burning
rays. There are three wavelengths:

UVA which tans but also harms deeper skin layers

UVB which burns

UVC which causes major skin damage, but at present is screened out by the
earth’s protective ozone layer

Choose a cream which gives protection against UVA and UVB rays.

SPF stands for sun protection factor against the burning UVB rays. For example, SPF
15 provides up to 15 times the skin’s natural protection against these rays. Some
products go up to SPF 50 – most experts advise that you choose a cream with a minimum SPF
of 15 for a baby unless you are going somewhere with a tropical climate, in which case you
should use a minimum of factor 25. The amount of protection given by a cream depends on
skin type and, more importantly, application. Sun protection cream needs to be applied
liberally and frequently, and left on the skin’s surface rather than completely rubbed in

Star ratings indicate protection against UVA. The star system was developed by Boots
and has now been adopted by many of the major sun screen product manufacturers. Four stars
indicates optimum protection

Waterproof or water resistant means it’s less likely to wash off in water, but
it’s advisable to reapply if your child has spent some time swimming or splashing. Do
remember that your child can still burn even when he’s in the water

Fragrance-free means that it doesn’t contain perfumes

Hypo-allergenic and dermatologically tested means that it is specifically designed
for sensitive skins – some brands may be suitable for babies suffering from dry skin or
eczema

Buying tips

  • Sun protection products come in lotions, milks, creams and mousses. It’s important to
    choose a make that is quick and easy to apply on to a wriggly baby or toddler, and that
    gives good, thick coverage. Remember that there should be a layer left on the surface of
    the skin.
  • Some makes of sun cream are now also available in roll-on applicators, which are quick
    and easy to use on children. Lipstick-style applicators are useful for lips, nose and
    ears.
  • Don’t hoard old bottles of suncream – they need to be replaced
    each year. The cream’s effectiveness is likely to start to reduce after
    about six months. This process will be speeded up if the bottle has
    been left in the heat of the sun, so try to keep it in the shade while
    you’re on the beach.

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