Sun Screen Options for a Safe Summer
Updated: Jul 7, 2022
Courtesy of Leo Rivas on Unsplash
The copious amount of sunscreen on Target shelves can be a bit overwhelming, especially if you don’t know what to look for on the labels. No parent wants to endure a sunburned child after a fun day at the beach, and who wants to worry about the potential risk for skin cancer?! So here are a few quick tips to help you look for a sunscreen that is right for you and your family, and I will also suggest some highly ranked crowd favorites!
1. Lotion Sunscreen
Inevitably, there are chemicals in sunscreen that prevent the sun rays from penetrating the skin. These chemicals are not fatal. However, it’s never ideal to inhale or ingest chemicals of any kind. Spray sunscreen increases the risk of your child, and you, inhaling the fumes, so it's better to buy lotion or stick sunscreen rather than spray.
2. Mineral Sunscreen
Oxybenzone is a chemical found in many sunscreens that have been shown to interfere with human sex hormones. Using mineral-based sunscreens omits this chemical and is also known to be less irritating to the skin, so great for kids!
3. SPF Myths
I’m so sorry to disappoint, but SPF 100 does not work twice as well as SPF 50. Many people get confused by the sunscreen SPF.
SPF 50 is sufficient in blocking out 98% of sun rays.
SPF 100 blocks out 99%
So as long as you are applying the sunscreen correctly, SPF 50 is sufficient.
Now that you have a general rundown on safe sunscreen, here are some of the top-ranking sunscreens for children.
Mineral-based
Available in lotion, stick & spray
Water-resistant
CeraVe Baby Hydrating Mineral Sunscreen
Good for sensitive skin
Mineral-based
Oil-free
Fragrance-free
98% organic ingredients
Reef safe
Mineral-based
Non-allergenic
Tear-free
Water & sweat resistant
Long-lasting
Mackenzie Eaton is a senior Honors student at Sacred Heart University, expected to graduate with her BA in English and Minor in Marketing. She plans to pursue a Master's degree in English after graduating in May 2022.