As soon as the nice weather arrives, the shelves are filled with sunscreens of all sizes and textures. SPF index, UV protection, ingredients, water resistance… What are the best choices for protecting little ones' skin? With my children, I tried out well-known products found on the shelves of Charlotte and Charlie.
But first, a little reminder of the basic advice:
A sunscreen is effective if it follows a few simple rules: first, apply it 15 to 30 minutes before sun exposure and repeat the action regularly, every 2 hours or after swimming.
How much to use? According to the Canadian Dermatology Association , you should use at least the equivalent of the rounded palm of your hand filled with your sunscreen for full-body application.
Also, look for a stable, proven formula that offers broad spectrum protection that will block both UVB and UVA rays.
Organic, mineral or classic?
Children's skin is more sensitive and reactive, so it is important to make the right choice. More and more parents are opting for mineral, or so-called physical, screens that contain titanium dioxide or zinc oxide, which block ultraviolet rays. These products have evolved greatly in recent years and are easier to apply. However, according to dermatologists, they are not necessarily more effective than traditional, so-called chemical screens, but they are generally better tolerated by people with more sensitive skin.
We tested these products:
Sun Bum: It smells like vacation!
The popular American brand Sun Bum offers a classic sunscreen , which protects against UVA and UVB rays, which is enhanced with vitamin E. It therefore helps to counteract dehydration of the epidermis in addition to protecting against the effects of the sun.
The plus: we love the tropical fragrance that literally transports us to an exotic beach, even if we haven't left the backyard! The cream is gentle and suitable for the whole family.
Please note that this product contains synthetic ingredients recognized and approved by Health Canada, such as avobenzone, and that the fragrance could irritate sensitive skin. However, my two children had no skin reactions.
Sun Bum Mineral: Long live the spray!
Prefer protection free of synthetic ingredients? Good news: Sun Bum has just launched a 100% mineral range, available now in stores in lotion, stick or spray form.
The mineral spray quickly caught the attention of Fiston, who loves the speed and ease of application. It is also the ideal format for toddlers who can't sit still and want to go play in the water quickly !
A tip: for sprays, it is recommended to use them externally and to avoid putting them directly on the face.
Baby Bum: minerals to protect baby
The Sun Bum brand also offers Baby Bum SPF 50 sunscreen which is made with safe minerals to protect babies' fragile skin from UVA/UVB rays.
Formulated with zinc oxide, it applies easily with a non-greasy feel. We also love its ingredients that hydrate and nourish the skin, like coconut oil and shea and cocoa butter.
My opinion: this cream is a little thicker than Sun Bum and leaves a slight whitish veil. The trick is to apply it in small sections at a time. Take the opportunity to give your children a massage! ;)
Douce Mousse: organic for little ones
Natural and organic, Douce Mousse SPF 30 sunscreen is a favorite among Quebec families and with good reason. Its biodegradable formula contains no synthetic ingredients. It is not only made from natural ingredients such as shea, jojoba and sunflower butters and uses zinc oxide as sun protection.
This cream is a real favorite! It leaves no trace, color or greasy effect on the skin. The presence of jojoba oil and shea butter in the product delights us. We also like that it is a product made in Quebec. Impeccable!
GOM.MEE: a practical and gentle balm for the skin
Brand new, beautiful, the mineral sunscreen balm SPF 30 from GOM.MEE - a Quebec brand that we love! - arrived a little late this summer. That doesn't stop it from immediately receiving our approval and being one of our summer favorites. Ultra practical, the mineral screen stick can be slipped everywhere, from your handbag to your day camp pouch, for easy and quick application.
The plus: unlike other products in this category, its texture is silky and non-sticky. The balm is perfectly suited to sensitive skin, such as cheeks, ears, neck and feet. We love it!
Creating a screen… differently
Blocking UV rays is also done through appropriate clothing and accessories. Here are some essentials to add to your beach bag this summer.
Sunglasses
You wear sunglasses every day, but have you thought about protecting your children's eyes? We love these Izipizi sunglasses with polarized lenses that block 100% of UV rays, in addition to countering glare. As cute as they are protective, these unisex and universal style glasses stay in place well. A plus!
Wide Brim Hat
Baby doesn't like wearing a hat? Try this Grow-with-me model from Jan & Jul , which offers a perfect fit thanks to its two straps and "grows" with him. Its breathable cotton fabric with wide brim offers SPF 50+ sun protection, which earned it the favorite award from several specialist magazines. A must!
Swimming sweater
Swim tops have quickly become a staple of the summer wardrobe. In addition to providing a barrier to UV rays, they also give a very trendy surfer look. We love the ones from the Lassig brand , with their unisex and timeless style.
Good news: outdoor public pools, water games and several beaches like Baie de Beauport are once again accessible. Take advantage of this opportunity to discover a new place or change neighborhoods!
Have a nice summer!
*Cover photo: Charlotte Bouvier
