Ranking of the best sunscreens for children for 2022

Children's skin needs protection from the sun. What safe products contain, at what age to use and how to choose the best sunscreen for children's skin, we'll talk in the article.

How to choose sunscreen for children?

The skin of babies and young children is delicate and contains less melanin. Ultraviolet rays penetrate deeper, so they are much more susceptible to the negative effects of radiation than adults.

The most important aspect of skin cancer prevention is avoiding ultraviolet radiation and reducing exposure to direct sunlight as much as possible.

Many mothers of toddlers, before the first strong rays of the sun, seek advice on which sunscreens will be the best.

The first and basic rule is the number of the protective filter. It should be chosen depending on the type of skin and the associated sensitivity to solar radiation, as well as the time that the child plans to spend in the sun. The rule is simple - the longer it stays in the sun or the more intense it shines, the higher the filter should be.

The composition of sunscreens is important. Safe filter cosmetics should not contain:

• allergenic fragrances;
• dyes;
• dangerous preservatives (formaldehyde, dangerous parabens such as butylparaben, propylparaben).

Another factor that influences which cream to choose is the time spent in the sun. You need to take into account the fact that ultraviolet rays are dangerous in the shade.

The age of the child matters. For children under 3 years old, creams with mineral filters are recommended, thanks to the active ingredients they intensively and permanently moisturize, reduce skin roughness, soothe, relieve irritation, and accelerate the regeneration of the epidermis. Such products are easily applied to delicate baby skin and do not clog pores.

Unlike commonly used chemical filters, they create a coating that is impermeable to ultraviolet rays.

How filters work, their types

Generally, sunscreens are supposed to protect children from harmful UV rays, but filters are different. The differences are not only in the variable SPF values, but primarily in the mechanism of action.

UVs are divided into two groups:

• organic (chemical);
• inorganic (physical, mineral).

Chemical - absorb photons of UVB and UVA radiation, and then convert the absorbed energy into heat. They do not evaporate and remain on the skin longer than mineral ones, they absorb the sun's rays well. In order for the cream to penetrate well and begin to work effectively, it must be applied at least 20 minutes before sun exposure.

The products provide good protection against radiation, but they are photostable, which means that the substances contained in them, under the influence of the sun, cease to protect the skin after a while. Therefore, it is necessary to repeat the application of the cream approximately every 2 hours and after each exit from the water.

Chemical filters contain certain chemicals and are therefore suitable for children over 6 months of age. Products with chemical filters in people with sensitive skin can cause irritation and skin allergies.

The main types of chemical filters include:

• bis-ethylhexyloxyphenol methoxyphenyl triazine;
• methylene bis-benzotriazolyl, tetramethylbutylphenol;
• ethylhexyl salicylate;
• ethylhexyltriazone;
• diethylhexylbutamido triazone;
• drometrizole trisiloxane;
• terephthalilidene dicamphorsulfonic acid;
• disodium phenyl dibenzimidazole tetrasulfonate;
• Octocrylene protects against UVB and to a very small extent against UVA, but there is more and more research on its photoallergic effect, so it is not recommended in children's preparations.

Mineral filters are particles that reflect and scatter ultraviolet photons.Unfortunately, they remain on the skin less than chemical ones, so they should be used more often than the latter, but they cause less allergic reactions and irritations.

They contain two substances that protect against radiation: titanium dioxide (titanium dioxide) and zinc oxide (zinc dioxide), the particles of which are so large that they do not penetrate the skin. They work by reflecting or scattering sunlight rather than absorbing it.

Creams with these filters are thick and must be applied in a thick layer to be effective - but since they do not penetrate the skin, this can be done immediately before going outside.

In addition, they are photostable - their properties do not change over time, rarely cause allergic reactions, therefore they are suitable for newborns and children with allergies.

The downside of mineral filters is that they don't protect very well from the sun (therefore pair with chemical filters), can bleach, and need to be reapplied after each soak. Mineral (physical) filters are a healthier alternative to chemical filters.

What does the abbreviation SPF mean?

• SPF (sun protection factor) is an indicator of sun protection and is used to determine the degree of protection against UVB radiation only, but does not apply to UVA. This means the ratio of the minimum dose of radiation that causes erythema on skin protected by the preparation to the minimum dose of radiation that causes erythema on unprotected skin.
• Understanding the SPF principle is important.The fact that a protective drug has an SPF of 30 does not mean that when the drug is applied, the skin can be exposed to solar radiation 30 times longer than unprotected, but only that the dose of radiation that causes erythema after using this drug can be 30 times longer. times higher than the radiation dose required to cause erythema on unprotected skin. As far as UVA protection goes, it's not as uniform as UVB protection.

Important! Be sure to use creams containing UVB and UVA filters. It is recommended to use products with SPF 50+ for children, especially infants, children with mild phototype or atopy.

Sun and Vitamin D

Sun exposure is beneficial to the body as it provides the vitamin D needed to keep bones in good condition, which is especially important for children. During the day, 15 minutes of exposure to the sun (bare arms and legs) without any filters is enough for the body to produce the correct dose of vitamin D. However, you need to be careful with the sun and even on a cloudy summer day, use sunscreen while staying on street.

UVA and UVB radiation

The sun emits UVA and UVB radiation. The latter is responsible for the production of vitamin D and sunburn.

The second type of radiation, or UVA, is "sent" by the sun in much greater quantities than UVB, and does not make itself felt. However, it damages collagen fibers and accelerates aging. Both UVA and UVB rays contribute to the formation of skin cancer, which is why it is so important to protect yourself from them.

Rules for protecting children from solar radiation

Young children have a lower thermoregulatory capacity than adults, which is why it is so easy for them to get sunstroke.Because of the potential for sunburn and the more serious damage that ultraviolet rays cause to a child's body, children under the age of 3 should be protected from direct sunlight.

Helpful Hints:

• before going outside, it is recommended to lubricate the child with a product (if the filter is chemical, it is better to do this 20 minutes before going outside) with a high SPF coefficient (+50);
• repeat the application of the cream with a mechanical filter if it wears off;
• on sunny days, choose places and hours of walking when the temperature is not high and the sun is not too intense, it is best not to go outside between 11.00 and 16.00, when the sun is at its strongest;
• for walks it is better to choose places where the shadow prevails, especially when you are the parent of a newborn, make sure that the sun's rays do not fall directly on the stroller;
• if the child is playing in the garden, place an umbrella over the playground.

Important! When choosing a sunscreen for a child, pay attention to the additional substances present in cosmetics. Many manufacturers add harmful sunscreens (such as ethylhexylmethoxycinnamate) that can harm baby's delicate skin.

The best sunscreens for kids

Sun protection, moisturizing

Nivea Sun Kids

Sun lotion for delicate, sensitive baby skin. As part of the cosmetic product, panthenol and vitamin E, as well as oils, plant extracts, all this has a positive effect and protects from the sun.

Filter SPF 50+

Form - lotion

Volume - 200 ml

Price - 825 rubles.

• contains no artificial colors;
• effective sun protection
• suitable for sensitive, allergy-prone skin;
• chemical filters;
• waterproof agent;
• pleasant aroma;
• quickly absorbed.

• high price.

Floresan Africa Kids

Effective cosmetics for the child, which will protect against the effects of sunlight. Suitable for land and sea applications. The gentle structure of the cream is created especially for babies, the pleasant aroma will leave a good feeling.

The cream contains complexes of UVA and UVB filters, vegetable oils, vitamin E, which effectively protect the skin from ultraviolet radiation. Thanks to the waterproof formula, the skin is protected for a long time during sun exposure and after water treatments.

It is recommended to apply the cream on the skin before going out into the sun, it is good to repeat the procedures after sunbathing.

 

Filter - SPF 50

Form - cream

Volume - 50 ml

Price - 131 rubles.

• affordable price;
• light structure;
• moisturizes and softens;
• waterproof agent;
• well absorbed;
• high degree of protection;
• a small amount is required;
• as part of oil and panthenol;
• pleasant aroma;
• suitable for sensitive skin.

• no.

Hypoallergenic creams and burn protection

Garnier ambre solaire

The cosmetic product from a well-known manufacturer of cosmetic products is suitable for sensitive children's skin, effectively protects against solar radiation, does not dry out the skin and does not cause allergies.

Patented photostable uva/uvb protection for baby from indirect rays in the shade thanks to filters of natural origin (organic and mineral).

Filter - spf 50+

Manufacturer: GARNIER

Form - cream

Volume — 50ml

Price - 270 rubles.

• economical means;
• good consistency;
• good fragrance;
• fat enough;
• waterproof;
• effective remedy;
• does not contain dyes and fragrances.

• leaves traces;
• poorly absorbed;
• rolls down;
• gives a strong oily sheen.

Belita Vitex

It has a high level of SPF and provides effective protection for sensitive children's skin from the harmful effects of active sunlight. Mousse not only protects, but also has a calming effect, moisturizes, relieves redness, itching.

Filter SPF 50+

Form - cream - mousse

Volume — 150ml

Price - 606 rubles.

• affordable price;
• reliable protection from intense sun;
• prevents burns;
• has a softening, moisturizing effect;
• relieves irritation;
• light aroma, pleasant structure;
• absorbs well;
• does not cause an allergic reaction;
• waterproof agent;
• in the composition of sea buckthorn oil, jojoba;
• Suitable for baby's sensitive fair skin.

• there is a sticky feeling after application.

My Sunshine

Cream with a sunscreen effect for sensitive baby skin, hypoallergenic, waterproof. Reliable protection under the scorching sun.

SPF filter from 31 to 50+

Form - cream

Volume — 55 ml

Price -139 rubles.

Producer "My Sunshine"

• affordable price;
• reliable protection against burns;
• has a softening and moisturizing effect;
• waterproof agent;
• suitable for sensitive skin, hypoallergenic cream;
• well absorbed;
• has an anti-inflammatory effect;
• long-term UV protection;
• For children from 1 year;
• does not cause irritation and peeling;
• blocks moisture loss;
• developed according to a special formula for children;
• as part of vitamin E, vegetable oils and calendula extract.

• leaves traces;
• not applied evenly enough.

Mustela

Sunscreen milk, hypoallergenic for baby's face and body. Differs in high degree of protection, gentle texture and pleasant aroma.

Filter SPF - 50+

Form - milky

Volume - 100 ml

Price - 1439 rubles.

• high degree of protection;
• can be used for small children, from birth;
• the cosmetic product has passed clinical trials;
• contains natural ingredients;
• has a moisturizing, soothing effect;
• wash-out resistant;
• contains oils and extracts;
• no parabens and alcohol;
• light consistency;
• large volume;
• contains a physical filter;
• there are no dyes;
• suitable for hypersensitive skin.

• high price.

Weleda

Protective cream against intense sun rays, cosmetics for babies and children.

Contains extracts of mountain edelweiss, sunflower and coconut oil, mineral filters, which effectively and reliably protect the delicate skin of the child.

SPF 30 filter

Form - cream

Volume - 100 ml

Price - 1150 rubles.

• large volume;
• waterproof agent;
• for sensitive baby skin;
• does not contain artificial colors and preservatives;
• pleasant aroma;
• well absorbed;
• reliable UV protection;
• does not leave streaks;
• economical consumption;
• moisturizes;
• is a professional pharmacy cosmetics.

• high price;
• leaves traces.

Uriage Bariesan

An excellent cosmetic product for your beloved child, suitable for use by children from four years old. It has a high degree of UV protection. Well moisturizes and nourishes. Delicate texture and pleasant aroma.

Filter SPF 50+

Form - cream

Volume - 100 ml

Price - 620 rubles.

• reliable protection against photoaging;
• moisturizes and nourishes;
• hypoallergenic cosmetic;
• contains vitamins and plant extracts;
• no alcohol and parabens;
• does not leave streaks;
• economical consumption;
• relieves irritation;
• refers to professional pharmacy cosmetics.

• no.

Bubchen

Milk for babies and children, developed according to a special formula, water-resistant with the content of combined filters. Contains vitamins, plant components, reliably protects against ultraviolet radiation.

Filter SPF 50+

Form - cream

Volume - 100 ml

Price - 529 rubles.

• large volume;
• high quality;
• combination of filters;
• ideal product for toddlers
• contains valuable components;
• well nourishes, moisturizes and protects;
• does not cause redness, peeling;
• delicately caring;
• thanks to the texture it is easily and evenly distributed;
• can be used for babies from 6 months;
• waterproof;
• as part of vitamin E;
• does not leave streaks;
• economical consumption;
• does not contain dyes and artificial additives.

• no.

Conclusion

Summer is the time for vacations, sun, water procedures, and the sensitive, delicate skin of a baby requires reverent care, properly selected means of protection. The tips in the article will certainly help you prepare for the beach season, spend time on the street without burns and troubles!