As we wave goodbye to a gray, chilly Winter and enter into the warmer, brighter months in the Northeast, families all around are sure to be basking in the sunshine every chance we can get. The sun can do many wonderful things, but we cannot ignore the harm it can also cause.
While skin cancer in children is rare, it is the healthy habits we instill today that will set them up for a healthy future so they can reduce their likelihood of skin cancer. According to a survey conducted by the American Association of Dermatology Association, 71% of Gen Z young adults are unfamiliar with the risks associated with sunburn. Did you know that you can even get a sunburn on a cloudy day? This is why daily sun protection is essential!
At Concierge Pediatrics, we believe in being more proactive than reactive. Sunscreen and sun protection is a great way to proactively protect your family’s skin health to avoid sunburns, suspicious moles, and the risk of skin cancer. We understand there is much chatter online about sunscreen and safe use. We’re here to answer commonly asked questions about sunscreen and sun protection to help your family make a well-informed, healthy decision rooted in facts and science.
What Are The Benefits Of Using Sunscreen?
Sunscreen helps protect all different skin types from the harmful effects of the sun. When you use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher and water resistance, you can:
- Reduce the risk of skin cancer
- Avoid sunburn
- Decrease signs of aging, like wrinkles
- Reduce the appearance of dark spots
What Does Broad-Spectrum And SPF Mean?
Broad spectrum sunscreen means that it provides protection against both UVA and UVB sun rays – two types of ultraviolet (UV) radiation. UVA rays are more deeply absorbed into your skin (dermis) and are responsible for wrinkles and the appearance of aging, whereas UVB rays are absorbed into the epidermis layer of skin and are the cause of sunburns and skin cancer.
SPF stands for sun protection factor. SPF is associated with how much solar energy it would take to burn protected skin. Contrary to popular belief, the SPF number on your sunscreen bottle does NOT mean the amount of time you are protected in the sun. The intensity of the sun changes throughout the day, so, for instance, 1 hour in the sun at 9am could equate to the same amount of solar energy as 15 minutes in the sun at 1pm. There are other factors to consider like where in the world you are, the type of skin you have, and how often you reapply sunscreen. SPF should be used for protection, not a reason to remain in the sun longer. A higher SPF means higher UV protection, so reach for a bottle of broad spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 or higher.
What Are The Ingredients In Sunscreen?
Below is a list of commonly used active ingredients in products that are labeled as sunscreen:
- Aminobenzoic acid
- Avobenzone
- Cinoxate
- Dioxybenzone
- Homosalate
- Meradimate
- Octocrylene
- Octinoxate
- Octisalate
- Oxybenzone
- Padimate O
- Ensulizole
- Sulisobenzone
- Titanium dioxide
- Zinc oxide
These ingredients are classified as “generally recognized as safe and effective” (GRASE) by the American government. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is responsible for ensuring the safety of the products we use in the United States. The 2020 CARES Act, passed by congress, reformed and modernized the way FDA regulates drugs like sunscreen. Although the FDA proposed that only zinc oxide and titanium dioxide qualify for GRASE, the CARES Act final report remained consistent with the original 1999 recommendation of the 16 listed ingredients as GRASE.
What Ingredients Should I Look For?
When selecting a sunscreen, look for these 3 things
– Broad Spectrum
– SPF 30 or higher, as recommended by the American Academy of Dermatologists
– Water-resistant
When possible, consider avoiding sunscreens containing the ingredient oxybenzone. While this ingredient qualifies as GRASE and is effective at protecting against the sun’s rays, it has been shown to be an endocrine disruptor, affecting hormone development in children. Any sunscreen is safer than no sunscreen, so it is still OK to use when your preferred sunscreen isn’t available.
EWG Sunscreen Report 2025
Every year, the Environmental Working Group (EWG) releases a publication reporting on the safety and effectiveness of sunscreen. The EWG is an influential American advocacy group who lobbies lawmakers on Capitol Hill to support or enact legislation that aligns with their mission and reform public health and agricultural laws. This year’s report included a recommendation of 500 sunscreens of the ~2,200 examined products, citing concern on the health and environmental effects of some chemical sunscreens. While their advocacy is rooted in scientific research and can be incredibly useful to consumers in making informed decisions, their methodologies and conclusions are sometimes considered controversial among the scientific community. Critics have previously claimed that the EWG has overstated risks and could needlessly cause consumers to avoid using sunscreens. The EWG report does not always align with the standards for effectiveness as set by the FDA, which emphasizes the importance of sunscreen use. However, both groups agree that ingredients like zinc oxide and titanium oxide provide effective use for consumers and are more environmentally friendly for the planet.
With this in mind, it is important to consume all studies with a critical eye and consider multiple expert sources when making a decision for your family. If you are ever unsure, your pediatrician is a great expert to partner with in making the most informed decision for your circumstances. Most importantly, the EWG agrees that “the best sunscreen is the one you wear and apply often” so no matter which brand you choose, you can use it with confidence of sun protection. The most recent sunscreen report from the EWG can be found here.
When To Reapply Sunscreen
- Every 2 hours
- When sweating, like during sports
- After being in the water (water-resistant does not mean water-proof!)
- After drying yourself with a towel (which may remove sunscreen)
Mineral Vs. Chemical Sunscreen
Mineral sunscreens sit on top of the skin, acting as a physical skin barrier. They contain ingredients like zinc oxide and/or titanium oxide, which reflect the UV rays from the sun. They are generally preferred for children and babies, as they are not absorbed into the bloodstream and are less irritating on sensitive skin. They are also the preferred choice for ocean lovers, as mineral sunscreen is safer for marine life. Some people complain that mineral sunscreens feel sticky on their skin.
Chemical sunscreens absorb into the skin and filter out UV rays. They contain ingredients like oxybenzone and octinoxate. Being absorbed into the skin and bloodstream does not necessarily mean it is unsafe, but some people prefer the barrier method of mineral sunscreens for this reason. The FDA still recommends use of chemical sunscreens for their effectiveness against the sun’s harmful rays.
Despite circulating online misinformation, there are no studies that conclude that sunscreen causes cancer. High amounts of sun exposure, like sun bathing, do have evidence of cancer risk.
Balancing Healthy Vitamin D Levels And Sun Safety
It’s true that vitamin D deficiency is common in the Northeastern United States, and sunscreen does reduce the absorption of vitamin D into the skin. Vitamin D helps promote good bone health, so it’s important to find balance in sun safety and vitamin D intake.
In warmer months, about April through October, children can get their daily dose of vitamin D by spending 15 – 30 minutes in the sunshine. Vitamin D is also found naturally in some foods, both naturally and in fortified store-bought foods.
Vitamin D supplements are also available – speak to your pediatrician before beginning any new vitamin supplements.
What About Getting A Base Burn/Tan?
Lots of people believe that getting a “base tan” will protect the skin in the future. Not true! A study conducted by the American Association of Dermatology found that 40% of surveyed young adults age 18-25 were unaware of tanning risks and 59% believing tanning myths, such as tanning is healthy, and a base tan will prevent sunburn. A base tan will not provide protection from future burns, and the best way to get gorgeous skin is by protecting it.
What To Do If Your Child Gets A Sunburn
Getting a sunburn can be a bummer for any age and cause discomfort. If your child has a first degree sunburn and feels uncomfortable, you can offer these home remedies:
- Apply aloe to the skin for a cooling effect and reduce skin peeling.
- Use cool compresses to help release heat from the skin.
- Take acetaminophen (Tylenol, etc.) for any discomfort – follow instructions on the packaging.
Signs of a more serious sunburn include blistering and/or signs of heat stress, like fever, chills, nausea, and vomiting. If any of these symptoms develop, call your pediatrician for direct guidance.
If your child’s mole meets any of the above criteria, it’s worth having a professional take a look. If you’re unsure, call your pediatrician or dermatologist to take a look and advise if a removal should be considered.
Who Should Wear Sunscreen?
Almost everyone! All genders, all skin types, and nearly all ages. Although sunburn is not as likely for people with darker complexion, skin cancer is still a risk. The only exception to be made is for babies under age 6 months, whose skin is sensitive and fragile, making them at high risk for sunburn. Babies under age 6 months should always be kept out of direct sunlight and their sensitive skin covered.
Where To Apply Sunscreen
About fifteen minutes before heading out into the sun, apply sunscreen to all exposed skin, and remember to apply under straps and on edges of clothing and swimsuits to avoid burn lines at the edge of the clothing. About 1 ounce should be enough to cover your body with sunscreen, but more can be used as needed to ensure full coverage.
Pay attention to application on sensitive skin areas, like eyelids and lips. Sunscreen can be applied directly to the lips or you can buy lip balms containing SPF. Don’t forget to apply sunscreen to commonly missed areas including the scalp, behind the knees, and tops of feet!
How Else To Stay Safe In The Sun
While sunscreen is an excellent protectant against the sun, there are more things your family can do to keep your skin safe, including:
- Avoiding the sun when possible during peak times, 10am – 3pm.
- Remaining in the shade whenever possible.
- Wearing wide brimmed hats.
- Covering your skin with cool, tight weave clothing – many swimsuits even come with long sleeves now, which is a great way to stay protected in the water.
- Keep babies under 6 months old out of direct sunlight at all times!
- Remember to reapply sunscreen every 2 hours.
- Drink lots of water – this is good for skin cell production and for keeping cool.
5 Things To Look Out For In A Mole
A changing or strange looking mole can be an indicator of skin cancer. Although skin cancer is rare in children, it is a good idea to regularly monitor new or changing moles on the body. When identifying suspicious moles, remember the ABCDE check
- Asymmetry
- The mole doesn’t look the same on both sides.
- Borders
- The mole isn’t round and has jagged edges.
- Color
- The mole has multiple colors, has uneven color, or is changing in color.
- Diameter
- The mole is larger than about the size of a pencil eraser (6mm).
- Evolving
- The mole is changing.
As pediatricians, we know that sun safety isn’t about limiting fun — it’s about empowering your family with evidence-based knowledge and healthy habits that carry you through life. Small choices today can make a big difference tomorrow, so as you head outdoors this season, make sun protection part of your family’s daily routine. If you ever have questions about sunscreen safety, sunburn management, or your child’s skin health, our team is here to help you make the right choice for your family. Enjoy the sunshine!
Located in New Jersey or on Long Island? Concierge Pediatrics provides year-round guidance to protect your child’s health, from sun safety to skin screenings. Learn more about our pediatric practice and enroll your child here.