Summer is here and, one step at a time, we are moving from everyday life indoors to spending maximum time outdoors. So what do you need to know when it comes to sun protection and what constitutes optimal protection from the sun? 

There is a plethora of tips and advice when it comes to sun protection for children and as a parent it can be difficult to navigate through them all. That's why we're sticking to the basics: what to look out for when it comes to staying in the sun for little ones, the difference between different sunscreens and tips to make everyday life easier on a sunny summer day.

Sun protection for children: what applies under 1 year old?

Young children have particularly sensitive skin because it is still developing at such an early age. Therefore, children under the age of 1 should avoid spending time in the sun and wear thin clothing that covers the whole body. From the age of 6 months, it is a good idea to apply SPF to areas that are easily exposed to the sun, such as the face.

Sun protection for children: what applies to over 1 year old?

Children over 1 year old should use sunscreen but should still avoid being in direct sunlight in the middle of the day when the rays are strongest. Protective clothing is also important, including sunglasses and a cap or sun hat should be worn daily.

Are you aware of CPR for children under 1 year? Check out our guide!

Should you choose a chemical or physical filter? 

In the world of sunscreen, there are two types of sun protection: physical and chemical. So let's sort out how they differ! The physical filter forms a protective layer on the skin and when the sun's rays reach the skin, they are reflected away. A physical filter acts immediately upon application and the consistency is usually of the slightly thicker kind. The chemical filter instead absorbs the UV rays and turns them into completely harmless radiation in the skin. It often takes about half an hour for the protection to take effect and the consistency is generally thinner than that of a physical filter.

Tips for optimal sun protection this summer!

• Choose playgrounds and activities in the shade, especially between 11am and 3pm when the sun is strongest
• Clothes, hat and sunglasses are the absolute best protection, supplement with sunscreen
• Wear a sun hat/cap even on cloudy days and in the shade
• Choose a waterproof sunscreen with at least SPF 30, but preferably SPF 50 
• Wear UV clothing that protects against radiation
• Apply sunscreen frequently throughout the day and generally use more sunscreen than you think you need
• In case of resistance to application: let the child apply it themselves! A clean makeup sponge or a brush can easily make application fun and let the child think they are in control - a winning concept!

Source: The Swedish Radiation Safety Authority