With the arrival of longer, warmer days, the desire to spend time outdoors also increases, whether at the beach, by the pool, in the park, or in the countryside. Moderate sun exposure has well-known positive effects; however, it is essential to ensure that this exposure happens safely, especially when it comes to children.

Children’s skin is more sensitive and vulnerable to damage caused by the sun’s rays. It is thinner and contains less melanin, meaning it has a lower natural ability to protect itself against ultraviolet (UV) radiation. For this reason, daily sun protection for children is essential to ensure skin health from the earliest years of life, preventing not only immediate sunburn but also future problems such as skin cancer. Despite these risks, it is perfectly possible to enjoy the sun safely. For that, it is enough to adopt specific and consistent care:

1.Sunscreen is for every day!

The use of sunscreen is essential whenever there is outdoor exposure, whether on sunny or cloudy days. Choose sunscreen specifically formulated for children, with SPF 50+, preferably hypoallergenic and water-resistant. Apply it 30 minutes before exposure and reapply every 2 hours or after contact with water or sweating. When applying, it is important not to forget all exposed areas: face, neck, ears, backs of hands, feet, and even the scalp in cases of fine or sparse hair.

2. Special care: Babies and skin conditions

The selected sunscreens should be appropriate for the child’s age and skin condition.

•    In the first 6 months of life, according to the Portuguese Directorate-General for Health (DGS), babies should not be exposed to the sun, either directly or indirectly. In unavoidable situations, physical protection methods should be used, such as light clothing covering most of the body, wide-brimmed hats, and staying in the shade. At this age, the application of sunscreen is not recommended due to the immaturity of the skin barrier, as the skin is still very undeveloped and permeable.

•    From 6 months up to 3 years, sunscreen specifically designed for children may be used, preferably with physical (mineral) filters such as zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, which are less absorbed by the skin and have a lower potential for irritation.

• From 3 years onwards, children may be exposed directly to the sun, always with full photoprotection measures. Paediatric sunscreens with chemical filters may be used, as long as they are suitable for sensitive skin, offer high protection, and have pleasant textures.

•    For babies or children with specific sensitivity or skin conditions, such as atopic dermatitis, choose sunscreens with physical (mineral) filters, hypoallergenic, fragrance- and alcohol-free, and with a high sun protection factor.

3. Beyond sun protection…

•    Stay in the shade and, whenever possible, use wide-brimmed hats, UV-protection sunglasses, and loose, opaque clothing that covers the skin.

•    Avoid sun exposure between 11 a.m. and 5 p.m., when UV radiation is at its peak, increasing the risk of sunburn.

•    Constant hydration is essential! It is crucial to ensure that children drink water frequently, especially on hot days.