What is SPF?

SPF stands for sun protection factor. In simple terms, it indicates a sunscreen’s effectiveness at preventing sunburn. The actual SPF rating (15, 30, 50+) is actually the measurement of the amount of time, it would take you to get sun burned, if you do not wear sunscreen, versus the time it would take with sunscreen on. For example, an SPF of 15 means it will take 15 times longer before you start getting sun burned. So if your child’s skin starts to redden after 5 minutes in the sun, without sunscreen, an SPF of 15 should, theoretically, increase that number by 15 (5 minutes multiplied by 15, which equals 75 minutes or 1 1/2 hours).

What to look for in a sunscreen

The  American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends an SPF minimum of 15 (SPF 15) and one that blocks both UVA and UVB rays (broad-spectrum). The key is to choose one that your child tolerates and will not object to using. Due to skin sensitivities, allergies, etc. it is best to try out any new sunscreen on a small area, for at least 24 hours, before applying all over the body or going out in the sun.

How much sunscreen to use

The important thing is to make sure that all exposed areas are covered – including easily missed areas, such as behind the ears, behind the neck, behind the knees, backs of arms, top of feet, etc. Plus, making sure that the sunscreen is applied 30 minutes before the child heads outside. And the sunscreen reapplied frequently – at least every two hours, and even more frequently, if the child is sweating, swimming or playing in water.

Remember, the best sunscreen is reducing exposure by taking protective measures, i.e. reducing skin exposure to sun rays by wearing: tight weave clothing, hats, sunglasses, lip balm with SPF, seeking shade, etc.

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