Six Tips for Choosing Your Child’s Sunscreen
by Alice Bustin
Sun protection is more complicated for kids with eczema than most children. Their skin is often compromised by flares and infections. Some eczema treatments increase photosensitivity and the risk of skin cancer. And chemicals in some sunscreens can cause more irritation, itchiness or even allergies.
Choosing the right sunscreen for your child can be a daunting task. Here are six tips, supported by research, on selecting the best sunscreen for your child.
1. Choose a mineral sunscreen
Sunscreens that rely on a mineral barrier to deflect sun, like those containing zinc and titanium, have fewer potential downsides than those that rely on chemicals. There is ongoing investigation on the overall safety of chemical sunscreens, which contain endocrine disruptors that may enter your child’s bloodstream. The downsides: these lotions are thick and chalky and some kids don’t like them.
2. Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen (UVA/UVB) + SPF50
Solar radiation can reduce skin barrier protection - an important factor contributing to many skin conditions including eczema and skin cancer. Given that the skin of children with eczema is already delicate, aim for the highest UV protection (SPF50). If you also choose a broad-spectrum formulation, protecting both against UVA and UVB, you’ll ensure your child has the maximum sun protection.
3. Beware of ingredients responsible for contact allergies in chemical sunscreens
If your child doesn’t like mineral sunscreens, be aware of the allergenic potential in many chemical sunscreens. A few ingredients responsible for most reactions:
Check the ingredients. The most problematic is benzophenone-3(oxybenzone). Avobenzone and octocrylene have also been found to be involved in allergic reactions, especially for children.
Choose a paraben-free product. Preservatives like parabens (methylparaben, propylparaben and butylparaben) can cause skin irritation.
Look for fragrance-free sunscreen
Search for sunscreens labeled hypoallergenic. A recent study tested the tolerance of a hypoallergenic sunscreen with broad spectrum SPF50 on 45 children, aged 3 to 12 years old, of diverse racial/ethnic background with history of eczema. All participants applied sunscreen daily on the face and body, at least 15 minutes prior to sun exposure and as needed for four weeks. No adverse events were reported.
4. If you suspect chemical sensitivities, do a photo patch test.
A good start with any new product is to apply a small amount of the sunscreen on the inside of the forearm for 3 days and check for a skin reaction.
5. Look for moisturizing properties
A good sunscreen for children with eczema will have moisturizing properties to lessen barrier dysfunction and prevent itchiness. Look for products without alcohol which stings and dehydrates the skin. Instead, search out sunscreens that contain ingredients like Dexpanthenol, ectoine, vitamin E or bisabol. These ingredients are recommended by dermatologists for their moisturizing and anti-inflammatory properties.
6. Apply sunscreen every two hours and wear protective clothes.
Finally, be sure to apply sunscreen every two hours, and especially after going swimming. Dermatologists also underline the importance of wearing SPF50 protective clothes and hats, decreasing the need for sunscreen.
