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There is still time for summer to officially begin, but temperatures do not stop rising and heat waves are coming. Protecting your skin from the sun is important at any time of the year, but the truth is that with this time it is much more, especially because we go with less clothes and spend more time outdoors.

And if in adults it is important, it is even more so in children and babies, since they are more exposed to the harmful effects of the sun. Their skin has a larger skin surface in relation to their body weight and a lower capacity for melanin synthesis, so they are more likely to suffer sunburn, redness and other problems derived from sun exposure. In addition, burns suffered in childhood are one of the main risk factors for developing melanoma in adulthood. And it is always convenient to remember: the skin has memory.

Thus, the first advice is clear, do not be in the sun during the central hours of the day. Something complicated to fulfill in many moments, so we move on to plan B: always wear clothes that cover us as much as possible, do not forget the cap, the umbrella, the glasses with protection ... and sunscreen,

HOW TO CHOOSE THE BEST SUNSCREEN FOR KIDS

The first thing is the type of filter of the sunscreen.

  • Chemical filters. They are substances that applied to the skin absorb photons from sunlight, through photochemical reactions, and modify them so that it does not harm the skin. They need about half an hour to take effect, so you have to apply them before sun exposure. It is true that they have more risk of allergy or different skin reactions, so their use is restricted in children.
  • Physical filters. Creams with physical or mineral filters are the most recommended for children. They are inert substances that applied to the skin reflect sunlight like a mirror and that, unlike the previous ones, do not absorb radiation. We will differentiate them because they leave a thin whitish layer on the skin.

You can also find mixed options with both options. It must protect from ultraviolet A and B radiation (UVA and UVB), and it is recommended that you also protect from infrared A (IR-A). In addition, it is best to be resistant to sweat, water and friction.

From what age should I start adding cream to my child? Experts agree on this: babies under six months should not be exposed directly to solar radiation. Thus, it is also recommended to wait until half a year to start applying sunscreen with a physical filter. From the age of three you can use those that have a chemical filter, although they can always cause allergies or dermatitis. The sun protection factor should be the highest possible, 50, and never less than 25.

Can I use last year's sunscreen? We accumulate cosmetics from one year to the next, and in many cases even if they lose qualities nothing happens. However, if we talk about protective creams, it is best to release a new container to ensure the protection capacity and stability of the product, especially if it is for the skin of a child.

THESE ARE THE BEST SUN CREAMS, ACCORDING TO THE OCU

And when it comes to finding the best sun creams for children, we should not lose sight of this ranking of the Organization of Consumers and Users (OCU), which has made a selection with the 10 best for this 2023. From Nivea, Garnier, Babaria or Isdin, check out this shopping list.

Special Spray Children 50+ Avène

Perfume free and water resistant, it offers high sun protection for children's sensitive skin. In addition, it has Avène thermal water, with soothing and anti-irritant properties. Its protection against UVB and UVA rays is long-lasting.

You can buy it here for 19.99 euros (20% discount).

NIVEA SUN SPRAY PROTECTOR KIDS SENSITIVE PROTECT 5 in 1

Children's skin is thinner and more sensitive than that of adults, so they need specific sun protection. This Nivea Sun Kids spray is an SPF 50+ sunscreen suitable for all skin types, but is especially suitable for the most sensitive. Unscented, the sunscreen is enriched with aloe vera, a moisturizing and soothing ingredient.

You can buy it here for 22.25 euros.

LANCASTER SUN SENSITIVE MILKY SPRAY FOR KIDS SPF50+, GREAT DISCOUNT

Because children need very high protection, this Milky Spray For Kids SPF50+ combines Lancaster's Full Light Technology and the naturally occurring Sunsicalm Complex to ensure broader protection for sensitive skin. In addition, it has no fragrance, does not itch or irritate the eyes and is anti-sand. It can be applied even on damp skin.

You can buy it here for 15.90 euros (58% discount).

Garnier Delial Kids Sensitive Advanced Protector

Garnier Delial sunscreen spray for children is a moisturizing spray with high sun protection, fast absorption and water resistant. Tested under paediatric control and is hypoallergenic. Optimal protection for children's most sensitive skin.

You can buy it here for 14.95 euros.

BIODERMA PHOTODERM KID SPRAY SPF50

This spray with sunscreens is ideal to protect the skin of the little ones, since its formula has been developed specifically for the most sensitive skins and does not contain perfume or dyes. For all this, it has become one of the favorite products among parents.

You can buy it here for 20 euros.

NIVEA SUN LECHE SOLAR KIDS PROTECTS & CARES FOR FP50+

With the good weather come the holidays and, of course, the hours of sunshine. And it is that in summer you have to take care of the skin and protect it from ultraviolet rays. With this sunscreen with a protection factor 50+ you can do it without worrying about the harmful effects of the sun.

It is moisturizing and water resistant, but at the same time guarantees advanced protection against harmful UVA/UVB rays. For all these reasons, it has become one of the best-selling products on Amazon.

You can buy it here for 14 euros.

BABARIA for children, the cheapest in the ranking

This sunscreen is especially suitable for children, since its formula has a soothing active for the most sensitive skin, which is irritated by most sun products. It also contains anti-inflammatory, anti-irritant, anti-itch and antioxidant tests.

It comes in spray format and its ingredients are 100% allergen-free. Its texture is light and is quickly absorbed into the skin.

You can buy it here for 12.52 euros.

VICHY IDÉAL SOLEIL anti-sand

The Vichy Idéal Soleil anti-sand spray for children with SPF 50+ is a spray that protects children's skin from UVA, UVB and sand rays. Sand can irritate the sensitive skin of little ones, which is why Vichy Idéal Soleil has launched an anti-sand spray with high protection. Sand slides more easily through the skin, without causing irritation or itching. The Vichy spray based on thermal water protects the skin, moisturizes it and prevents the formation of inflammation. It does not contain perfume or parabens. Water resistant.

You can buy it here for 19.40 euros.

CHILDREN'S SPRAY SPF 50+ HUNDRED (LIDL)

Cosmetics in supermarkets are getting better. An example of this is Mercadona, Lidl or Aldi. In this case, the sunscreen for children of the Cien brand, from the German supermarket Lidl, has crept into the ranking. 250 ml spray format that you can buy at an economical price. Of course, in store, online at the moment you can't.

You can buy it here.

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