Summer Sun Safety: A Parent’s Guide to Protecting Your Child’s Skin
Sunbathing at the beach is a popular summer activity. It's important to teach children to use sunscreen to protect their skin from an early age.
From Little Spuds Pediatrics – Your In-Home Pediatric Urgent Care Team
Summer fun is in full swing—and while we love seeing kids outside playing, swimming, and adventuring, we also want to make sure their skin stays safe from harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays. Both the sun and tanning beds emit UV light, which can cause:
Sunburn – painful damage to the skin that can occur in as little as 15 minutes of unprotected sun exposure
Photoaging – early signs of aging like wrinkles, spots, and skin laxity
Skin cancer – often linked to cumulative UV damage over time
What Is Sunscreen and How Does It Work?
Sunscreens are topical products made from either inorganic (mineral, like titanium dioxide & zinc oxide) or organic (chemical, like oxybenzone or avobenzone) ingredients that reflect, scatter, or absorb UVA and UVB radiation. A broad-spectrum sunscreen protects against both types and is most effective for full-spectrum UV protection.
Who Should Use Sunscreen?
Everyone. No matter your skin tone or skin phototype, UV light can cause long-term damage. Sunscreen is especially important for:
• Children and teens
• People with lighter skin tones
• Those taking sun-sensitizing medications
• Anyone spending time outdoors—working, playing, or vacationing
What About Babies?
Babies under 6 months of age have delicate, highly sensitive skin. The safest option is to:
• Keep them out of direct sunlight
• Dress them in long sleeves, pants, wide-brimmed hats, and sunglasses
• Use shade (strollers with covers, umbrellas, trees)
If exposure is unavoidable, apply a small amount of mineral-based sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) to small exposed areas like the face and hands. Look for active ingredients such as zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, which are gentler on baby skin.
How to Use Sunscreen the Right Way
Using sunscreen properly is key:
Apply 15–30 minutes before sun exposure
Follow the “teaspoon rule”
1 tsp for face/neck
1 tsp for front of torso
1 tsp for back of torso
1 tsp per arm
2 tsp per leg
Reapply every 2 hours, and always after swimming or sweating
Don’t forget commonly missed spots like the ears, back of neck, tops of feet, and scalp
Choosing the Right Sunscreen
Look for:
Broad-spectrum protection (UVA + UVB)
SPF 30 or higher
Water resistance
Mineral options (zinc oxide or titanium dioxide) for babies and sensitive skin
Sunscreens are generally very safe, with no evidence of harm from absorption through the skin. However, some individuals may be sensitive to certain chemical ingredients, such as avobenzone and oxybenzone, which can cause an itchy, red rash. If you’re concerned about skin sensitivity or allergies, mineral sunscreens are a great alternative — they sit on the skin’s surface and are less likely to cause irritation.
Don’t Forget Protective Clothing
Sun-protective clothing, hats, and sunglasses are essential. Look for items with a UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) of 50 or higher. Darker colors, tightly woven fabrics, and loose fitting garments provide better protection.
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At Little Spuds Pediatrics, we care for the whole child — from sun safety to sick visits. If your child has a sunburn, skin reaction, or you just need trusted guidance on the best products for your family, we’re here to help.
Skip the waiting room — book a high-quality, in-home pediatric visit today at www.littlespudspediatrics.com.
We’re so grateful to the families who continue to support Little Spuds — your local, mom-owned pediatric urgent care practice. It’s an honor to be part of your family’s health journey.
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Thank you for being part of the Little Spuds family!
Warmly,
Afton Potter, DNP, CPNP-AC Owner & Lead Pediatric Provider