9 tips when choosing sunblock for kids in Singapore

Sunblock. The simple thing we use to protect our kids and ourselves from sun damage has suddenly gotten complicated. Here are some tips to guide you when purchasing one for your kid.

9 tips when choosing kids' sunblocks in Singapore

It seems that with kids' sunblocks these days, a new guideline is imposed out of the woodwork every now and then. Use spray, don’t use spray, don’t use this one because it has XYZ in it, use this one but not too much, apply every two hours, don’t apply too often. Honestly sometimes I think the best advice to you on this matter is to keep your kid indoors until he turns 21!

Probably not the most realistic solution...

But yes, all guidelines seem to agree that taking care of your child's skin should start from an early age. And while it is important that your kid gets vitamin D from the sun, staying out too long without protection is likely to be harmful for him. Experts say that apart from effects on the skin, excessive long-term sun exposure can cause eye damage (i.e cataracts) and weakening of the immune system. This, in turn, reduces the body’s ability to fight infections. But what if you, like me, are uncertain on what is considered safe on a child's skin, here are 9 tips that help simplify the complicated process of choosing that right bottle of sunblock for your kid.

1. It should be at least SPF 15 but no higher than SPF 30

The sun protection factor (SPF) should be at least 15, but you generally don't need to go higher than 30.

2. Pay attention to your child's skin

If you have a family history of skin cancer or atypical moles, or are very fair, you should pay more attention to your kids’ skin in cases where he might be allergic to the lotion.

3. It should be a “broad spectrum"

Broad spectrum sunblocks block both UVA and UVB rays. And at SPF 15 or above, are the best way to prevent his skin from damaging.

4. It should contain the ingredients “titanium dioxide” and “zinc oxide”

These are active ingredients that reflect light and block UVA and UVB rays. They also protect his skin as soon as the sunblock is applied on him.

5. You should choose physical sunscreens over chemical sunscreens

Physical sunblocks are less likely to inflict a nasty skin reaction on him than chemical sunblocks.

6. If you do choose chemical sunscreens, do a patch test on your child first

Apply a small amount to the inside of the upper arm. If your child develops a rash or redness at the area by the next day, choose another formula instead.

7.If you do choose chemical sunscreens, it should contain avobenzone as one of the primary ingredients in the list.

Avobenzone is extremely effective in filtering out UVA (type of UV ray).

8. It should contain moisturising properties which will help skin that's been in the sun and water.

Your kid's going to be in the pool or the beach a lot, so a good sunblock should contain good moisturizing properties.

9. It should rub in quickly and easily on your child's skin

Children are not the most patient lot. So getting a sunscreen that will rub in both quickly and easily should be a factor during the purchase of one.

Written by

Marcus Tan

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