Summer is here, and that means it's time to talk about sunscreen! Protecting your child’s skin from the sun’s harmful rays is crucial, but with so many options available, choosing the right sunscreen can be overwhelming. Dr. Katie Hryniewicz, Pediatrician at Pullman Regional Hospital's Palouse Pediatrics, breaks it down and makes sun protection simple and effective in 4 simple steps.
Choose the Right Sunscreen
Broad-Spectrum Protection
“The American Academy of Dermatology recommends using a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30,” says Dr. Katie. Why? “Because SPF 30 blocks about 97% of UVB rays.” Higher SPFs block slightly more UVB rays, but no sunscreen can block 100%.
Find What Works for You
“There are so many choices,” Dr. Katie says when it comes to sunscreen options. The “best” sunscreen for you is the one you’ll actually use. She recommends families look for a sunscreen with:
- The appropriate SPF level (at least SPF 30)
- Ingredients you trust
- A scent you like
- A texture that feels good on your skin
- Easy to apply and rub in
Understand Sunscreen Ingredients
“There are two main types of sunscreen ingredients – physical barrier/mineral (titanium dioxide and zinc oxide) block and scatter the rays like a shield and chemical (avobenzone, octisalate) absorb UV rays like a sponge before they damage your skin,” says Dr. Katie. “For kiddos with sensitive skin and young infants, I recommend choosing a mineral-based sunscreen as there can be less skin irritation with these.”
Proper Sunscreen Application
Apply Properly
For maximum protection, apply sunscreen to your entire body before putting on your swimsuit or clothing. This ensures that your skin is protected even if your clothing shifts or you remove layers. Dr. Katie reminds to try not to “forget those easy-to-miss spots like your ears, the back of your neck, your scalp (especially along parts), the tops of your feet, and behind your knees.”
Use Enough
To ensure you’re fully protected, Dr. Katie says to “use about 1 ounce (a golf ball size) for teens and adults, or about half that amount for smaller children.”
Apply Early
This is one you may not know! Dr. Katie recommends that you “apply sunscreen at least 15-30 minutes before sun exposure. This is especially important for chemical-based sunscreens that take more time to kick in than mineral/barrier sunscreens.”
Reapply Often
Dr. Katie says, one of the biggest mistakes people make is forgetting to reapply sunscreen. To maintain protection:
- Reapply every 2 hours, or every 60-90 minutes if you’re sweating or swimming.
- Remember that spray sunscreens wash off more easily and may need to be reapplied more frequently.
Use Other Measures
In addition to sunscreen, consider these extra steps that Dr. Katie suggests to protect your skin:
- Avoid being outside in the direct sunlight during highest UV index times of day (when sun is strongest and highest in the sky) – from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
- Seek shade to play or hang out in. Even use an umbrella or canopy if needed.
- Wear sun-safe clothing – UV blocking sunglasses, UV blocking sun shirts with long sleeves, and wide brimmed hats.
- These “other measures” are particularly important for infants under 6 months old, who should be kept out of the sun as much as possible. If you absolutely cannot, apply a mineral based sunscreen to exposed areas of skin.
Oops! You got a sunburn. Ouch!
Dr. Katie knows that it happens. Avoiding a sunburn all summer long is tough. If you do get a sunburn, here’s how she recommends that you care for it:
- Take cool or lukewarm baths or showers.
- Use a cool, damp washcloth on the affected areas.
- Apply moisturizer containing aloe vera to damp skin after bathing.
- Drink extra water to stay hydrated.
- Take ibuprofen to reduce swelling and discomfort.
- Avoid popping any blisters that form.
Remember, protecting your skin from the sun is an essential part of maintaining your child’s overall health. With the right sunscreen and a few additional precautions, your family can enjoy the sun safely all summer long. Stay sun-safe and have a fantastic season!
To establish care or schedule an appointment with Dr. Katie, or another pediatrician at Palouse Pediatrics, please call our Pullman (509-332-2605) or Moscow (208-882-2247) office. Learn more by visiting the Palouse Pediatrics website.
