What sort of sun cream does your child need? A guide by skin type and age

Children’s skin is different from that of adults. It is thinner, has a less developed skin barrier and is more vulnerable to the effects of solar radiation. Furthermore, in recent years, new concerns have arisen regarding the ingredients in sun creams, such as the search for a children’s sun cream free from endocrine disruptors or the interest in formulas containing mineral filters.

Below, we explain which sun cream your little one needs based on their age, skin type and specific needs.

Babies under 6 months: what protection to use (and what to avoid)

When it comes to sun cream for a 6-month-old baby, the first thing to bear in mind is that specialists recommend avoiding direct sun exposure during the first few months of life.

If exposure is unavoidable and there are small areas of skin exposed, some dermatologists recommend formulas with mineral filters due to their excellent skin tolerance.

Heliocare 360º Pediatrics Mineral SPF 50+ offers very high protection based on mineral filters and has been specifically formulated for children’s skin.

Are there sunscreens for children with atopic skin?

Atopic skin has an impaired skin barrier, which leads to dryness, itching and increased sensitivity to external factors. Therefore, any product applied to the skin must be highly tolerable.

In these cases, it is advisable to look for:

• Dermatologically tested formulas.
• Gentle textures that are easy to apply.
• Broad-spectrum protection against UVB, UVA, visible light and infrared rays.
• Soothing and moisturising ingredients.
• No strong fragrances, wherever possible.

Many dermatologists recommend paying particular attention to mineral sunscreens for children with highly reactive skin, as mineral filters remain on the skin’s surface, reflecting solar radiation.

Heliocare 360º Pediatrics Mineral SPF 50+ is particularly suitable for these situations thanks to its formula tailored to sensitive and atopic skin.

Normal skin: what to look for in a children’s sun cream

When a child has no specific skin conditions, the priority remains choosing a sunscreen that is effective and easy to apply, bearing in mind a few key points:

Very high protection

Dermatologists usually recommend an SPF 50+ during childhood to minimise damage caused by solar radiation.

Broad-spectrum

It is not enough to protect against UVB rays. It is also important that the product offers protection against UVA rays, visible light and infrared radiation.

Easy to apply

One of the biggest challenges with children is ensuring even application and frequent reapplication.

For this reason, spray formats are often particularly practical during outdoor activities.

Heliocare 360º Pediatrics Transparent Spray SPF 50+ stands out for its quick, convenient and even application, making daily protection easy at the beach, the swimming pool or whilst playing outdoors.

Mineral vs. chemical filters for children

The comparison between mineral and chemical filters is one of the most frequently asked questions when discussing sun protection for children.

• Mineral filters, also known as physical filters, work mainly by reflecting and scattering solar radiation. Their advantages include excellent skin tolerance, a lower risk of irritation, suitability for sensitive skin, and their recommendation for babies and those with atopic skin. In this article, we’ll help you choose a children’s sun cream with a mineral filter.
• Chemical sunscreens absorb solar radiation and convert it into energy that is harmless to the skin. There are now very safe and effective new-generation sunscreens available that offer lighter textures and a better cosmetic experience.

Facial sun cream for children: what makes them different?

The skin on the face is usually more exposed to the sun than the rest of the body and, furthermore, requires formats that allow for precise application. Sun sticks have become one of the favourite options for protecting children’s faces.

Heliocare 360º Pediatrics Stick SPF 50+ allows for quick and precise application to the most exposed areas, making it particularly useful for reapplication during outings, sporting activities or days at the beach and pool.

Endocrine disruptors: when it matters and when it doesn’t

In recent years, there has been growing interest in finding a children’s sun cream free from endocrine disruptors. This term refers to certain substances which, under certain circumstances, could interfere with the hormonal system.

However, it is important to put this concern into context, as sunscreens currently authorised in the European Union have been assessed by regulatory bodies that continuously review their safety profile and set strict limits on their use.

Dermatologists agree that the main risk to children’s health remains excessive exposure to the sun without adequate protection.

What really matters is choosing a product suitable for the child’s age, applying a sufficient amount and reapplying it every two hours or after swimming.