Sun protection in children: how to protect their skin from infancy

Children's skin is more sensitive to ultraviolet radiation than that of adults.

In addition, an important part of the sun exposure accumulated throughout life occurs during childhood and adolescence.

Sunburns at these stages increase the risk of developing skin cancer, including melanoma, in adulthood.

For this reason, photoprotection should be part of healthy habits from the first years of life.

When they carry out outdoor activities, especially in spring and summer, it is indeed advisable to protect the exposed skin.

However, sunscreen is only one part of the strategy.

The best photoprotection combines:

• Seeking the shade.
• Adequate clothing.
• A wide-brimmed hat.
• Approved sunglasses.
• Sunscreen when necessary.

A sunscreen is recommended that is:

• Broad-spectrum (UVA and UVB).
• SPF 50 or higher for prolonged exposures.
• Water-resistant if the child is going to bathe or sweat.
• Suitable for children's or sensitive skin.

It should be applied approximately 20-30 minutes before sun exposure.

If the exposure continues, it should be renewed every two hours and always after intense bathing, drying with the towel or significant sweating.

Infants under six months of age should not be exposed directly to the sun.

Protection should be based mainly on:

• The shade.
• Clothing.
• The hat.

The use of sunscreen at this age should be limited and follow the paediatrician's recommendations when necessary.

Garments constitute one of the best forms of protection.

Especially useful are:

• Light long-sleeved t-shirts.
• Clothing with ultraviolet protection (UPF).
• Hats that cover the face, neck and ears.
• Sunglasses with an approved filter.

Whenever possible:

• Organise outdoor activities in the early hours of the morning or at the end of the afternoon.
• Look for shaded areas.
• Avoid prolonged exposure during the hours of greatest solar intensity.

Clouds do not block all the ultraviolet radiation.

Children can also suffer burns on apparently cool or cloudy days.

• Remove the child from the sun.
• Cool the skin with lukewarm or cool water.
• Maintain good hydration.
• Use soothing products recommended by a health professional.

If blisters, fever, listlessness or intense pain appear, a doctor should assess it.

Children learn by observing.

When adults use sunscreen, seek the shade and protect themselves properly, children adopt these habits much more easily.

Photoprotection is an education for a whole lifetime.

• Myth: Tanned children do not need sunscreen. Fact: All phototypes can suffer sun damage and develop skin cancer.
• Myth: If it is cloudy there is no risk. Fact: Ultraviolet radiation partially passes through the clouds.
• Myth: Sunscreen allows you to spend the whole day in the sun. Fact: It must always be combined with clothing, shade and adequate timing.
• Myth: A mild burn is not important. Fact: Each sunburn produces cumulative damage to the skin.
• Myth: We only have to protect ourselves at the beach. Fact: The park, the mountain, sport or the school playground also involve sun exposure.

• Sunburns during childhood increase the risk of skin cancer in adulthood.
• The best protection combines shade, clothing, hat, sunglasses and sunscreen.
• Babies under six months of age should avoid direct sun exposure.
• Sunscreen should be applied correctly and renewed frequently during exposure.
• Education in photoprotection begins in childhood and lasts a lifetime.
• Parents play an essential role by setting an example.