How much sunscreen does your kid need (and when to reapply)?
Most sunburns on sunscreen days come from too little sunscreen or not reapplying, not from the formula. Here’s how to get it right.
Apply liberally, 15 minutes before
Put sunscreen on 15 minutes before your kids head outside, and use more than feels necessary, or apply as needed, as each individual is different. A thin layer gives less protection than the SPF on the label. Apply it before swimsuits go on so you don’t miss the edges.
Reapply on schedule
- At least every 2 hours
- After 40 minutes of swimming or sweating
- Right after towel-drying
A phone timer helps. So does handing them the pouch and making it their job.
The spots everyone misses
- Ears, front and back
- Back of the neck
- Tops of the feet
- The hair part and hairline
- Behind the knees
- Shoulders and the top of the back
Sunscreen is one layer, not the only one
Pair it with shade, hats, sunglasses and long sleeves, and limit time in the sun between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. when UV is strongest. For babies under 6 months, ask your doctor before using any sunscreen.
Make it something they want
The easiest reapply is the one they don’t fight. SunKids smells like fruit and rubs in clear, so the second and third coat go on as easily as the first.
