Basking in the sun provides Vitamin D, but we all know too much of it isn’t good for redhead skin (especially since redheads are prone to melanoma even without exposure to the sun). Redhead kids and babies have super, super delicate skin and sunscreen is an absolute must. Have you ever wondered which sunscreen is best for redhead kids and babies?
Before you scroll below and see our top redhead-approved favorites, there are important tips to know about redhead kids, sun and sunblock:
Babies should never be exposed to direct sunlight and should be protected from UV rays
Children under one year of age should stay in the shade, if possible. The shade is completely sufficient for the valuable formation of vitamin D. Even in the shade, babies should wear a sun hat and protective UV clothing. Babies need sunscreen with a sun protection factor of at least 30.
Physical or mineral sunscreens are recommended
Unlike chemical sunscreens, mineral sunscreens do not enter the bloodstream. On baby/kid sunscreen packaging, you want to see language that only says: mineral filters, zinc and titanium dioxide. Zinc is the same ingredient in most diaper rash creams and it creates a strong barrier to protect the skin and is highly tolerable for even the most sensitive skin. These ingredients contain fine pigments that form a protective film on the skin and deflect the UV rays. In contrast to chemical filters, nothing will penetrate the sensitive baby’s skin.
Tip #1: When applying mineral sun creams, you will notice that these creams do not spread easily. They might even leave a white layer on the skin, which is very protective.
Many experts advise against exposing a baby’s skin to sunscreen within the first year
Babies are not yet able to regulate their temperature themselves and sunscreen makes sweating very difficult. They first have to learn how to sweat properly, then they can wear sunscreen.
But, this does not mean that a baby should be in the sun or shade without sunscreen. As soon as your baby is outside in the summer, apply sun cream to unprotected areas of skin. Choose a mineral sun cream suitable for children. This is very important because sunscreen products for adults may contain chemical filters, hormones or allergenic substances.
Always test it on one of your child’s skin areas before using it regularly
If the skin reddens or breaks out, do not use it.
If you see the wording PABA on the ingredient list, consider not purchasing it
If the sunscreen contains PABA (para-aminobenzoic acid), it may irritate the baby’s sensitive skin. It’s recommended to not put this ingredient on a child’s skin.
Children with eczema will benefit from a soothing care cream after sunbathing to moisturize the already dry skin. Especially for neurodermatitis skin, seawater with a little bit of sun is a good mixture. The cells regenerate and bacteria are combated. Often the skin appearance improves significantly after a beach holiday.
If you see the wording “micro-plastics” on the ingredient list, consider not purchasing it
Micro-plastics are listed under names such as Nylon-12, Polyethylene Acrylates, Polymethyl Methacrylates or Polypropylene (PP) in the list of ingredients. Synthetic polymers such as polyquaternium-7 or acrylates/C10-30 alkyl acrylates cross polymer are also considered critical because they, like micro-plastics, are difficult to degrade.
Follow these important steps when applying:
It is best to apply sunblock 30 minutes before sun exposure. The protective particles need time to settle and allow the protective effect to unfold. Even with waterproof sunscreen, you should reapply every two hours. Don’t leave any areas exposed to the sun and don’t forget the skin behind the ears, the feet, knees and hands.
Use a lot
Simply put, don’t skimp when applying. Rub the skin generously with sun cream. Even in the shade, the skin must be protected. Repeat the application every two hours. This does not prolong the protection period, but the effect remains stable.
Kids love a stick sunscreen
A stick sunscreen is arguably the easiest way to get sunscreen onto squirmy little faces. Although it seems like the easiest way to coat a wiggly 2-year-old, spray-on sunscreen is not recommended for babies or younger children. The ingredients in sunscreen are good for the skin, but not great for inhaling, and asking your child to hold their breath is sometimes an impossible task. Spray sunscreen also prevents you from knowing if the product is applied evenly, so you may end up missing areas that will get burned.
Here are 5 (plus, a bonus) top-rated redhead-approved sunscreens for redhead babies and children:
1. Babyganics Sunscreen Lotion 50 SPF, $8.50
This SPF 50+ formula provides broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection and glides on smooth for effortless application. Non-allergenic and tear-free.
2. Aveeno Baby Continuous Protection Zinc Oxide Mineral Sunscreen Lotion with Broad Spectrum SPF 50, $8
This effective mineral sunscreen lotion is as mild as water to the skin and applies to baby’s skin easily to lock in moisture without stinging or irritation. It’s suitable for use on both the face and body.
3. Blue Lizard Baby Mineral Sunscreen with Zinc Oxide, SPF 50+, Water Resistant, $13
This mineral formula uses zinc oxide and titanium dioxide to protect the baby’s skin from the sun’s burning rays. Plus, with an SPF of 50+, you can rest assured that your little ones are getting the protection they need.
4. CeraVe Mineral Baby Sunscreen SPF 45, $18
Formulated with zinc oxide and titanium dioxide to be gentle on baby’s delicate skin. Water-resistant (80 minutes)
5. Babo Botanicals Baby Skin Mineral Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50 with 100% Zinc Oxide Active, Unscented, $13
For the extra sensitive redhead kid. This product is a fast-absorbing, non-whitening & lightweight sunblock for very sensitive skin. Water-resistant and perfect for babies.
BONUS: Stick sunscreen was recommended above!
Thinkbaby SPF 30 Sunscreen Stick + Thinksport Kids SPF 30 Mineral Sunscreen Stick
Babies and kids hate standing still, so this hydrating sun stick is quick and easy to apply, and protection begins instantly. The fast-absorbing lotion won’t leave skin feeling oily or sticky –– and has no unpleasant chemical scent.
Rock it like a Redhead!
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