The differences between sunscreens designed for children are important at this point. The sunscreens chosen for children can be mineral-based (physical protective layer) or chemical ( chemical filter ). However, it is important to distinguish which of these is more beneficial for the child.
What types of sunscreens are there?
Sunscreens can be categorized into two types: physical and chemical. Both types of sunscreen ingredients have their own advantages. Mineral or physical sunscreens are known as suitable sunscreens for sensitive skin . They do not cause much irritation on the skin of children with sensitive skin. They provide broad-spectrum, effective protection. Moreover, they start to take effect immediately after application.
Chemical sunscreens penetrate the skin and provide protection against sun rays. They absorb UV rays and convert them into heat. In this way, no damage occurs to the skin.Chemical sunscreens have a transparent structure and leave no residue. Unlike physical sunscreens, they do not take effect immediately. Therefore, they should be applied 20-30 minutes before sun exposure.
How do mineral (physical) sunscreens work?
Mineral or physical sunscreens become active immediately after application and provide protection. They contain natural minerals. These valuable minerals form a protective layer on the skin. They reflect the sun's UV rays like a mirror. This prevents skin damage caused by sun exposure. This is one of the situations that can be described as a difference between the sunscreens intended for children .
How do chemical sunscreens work?
Another aspect that can be considered a difference between sunscreens intended for children is the chemical composition of the sunscreens. Chemical sunscreens contain carbon-based organic compounds. These ingredients do not form a barrier on the skin, penetrate the skin, and absorb sunlight. The absorbed sunlight is processed by chemical filters and converted into heat energy. This heat energy is then dissipated from the skin through vibrations. Thus, UV rays cannot damage the skin.
Which sunscreen is best for children?
Physical or mineral-based sunscreens are generally more suitable for young children. There are several reasons for this. These reasons are as follows:
- Mineral-based sunscreens reflect sunlight. The active ingredients do not absorb into the skin. This means that there is no occurrence of skin irritation or allergic reaction.
- The zinc oxide and titanium dioxide it contains provide comprehensive protection against both UVA and UVB rays.
- Mineral filters contain more natural substances compared to chemical filters. For this reason, parents prefer mineral-based sunscreens for their children.
- Physical sunscreens offer a more practical application method, as they take effect immediately. This is an added bonus, especially considering impatient children. Chemical creams require at least 20-30 minutes to be absorbed into the skin.
- Some mineral creams may have a thicker consistency. However, it can be said that in terms of content, they are more advantageous than chemical sunscreens.
Mineral-based sunscreens are more frequently preferred for children. However, if mineral-based sunscreen is not available, then chemical sunscreens made from oxybenzone-free ingredients specifically developed for children's skin may also be more advantageous.But at this point, it is important to pay attention to the issue of allergies.
Comparison: Which one should we avoid?
Both physical and chemical sunscreens contain different ingredients. Some of these may pose a risk to the skin. Therefore, it may be worth checking the ingredients when choosing sunscreen.The recommended ingredients to avoid are as follows:
- Oxybenzone chemical filter (as it may carry allergic or hormonal risks)
- Octinoxate filter (as it may carry hormonal risks)
- Homosalate filter
- Octocrylene filter
- Parabens
- Alcohol
- Synthetic fragrances
- Additives
- Nanoparticles
- Some essential oils
When selecting a sunscreen, as with other products, it is important to check the ingredients. Otherwise, unexpected damage may occur to the skin, jeopardizing skin health.
Dermatologically approved sunscreens
Dermatologically tested means that the product has passed certain testing phases and has been proven not to cause skin irritation or allergies. Therefore, this is one of the details to consider when selecting sunscreen. Tests such as patch tests or usage tests are conducted on the product, confirming that there are no side effects. This way, consumers can safely purchase and use the product.
Recommendations for safe use on children's skin
Sunscreens preferred for children should generally be physical (mineral) based. Whenever possible, broad-spectrum products should be favored, and for baby sunscreen at least a factor 30 sunscreen should be chosen.When selecting sunscreen for children, it is important to ensure that it does not contain oxybenzone. This filter can cause hormonal imbalances.
Preference should be given to those children's sunscreens that do not irritate children's sensitive skin and do not contain additives such as fragrances or alcohol. The product should be applied 15-30 minutes before sun exposure and reapplied every 2 hours.
Such is the Maruderm SPF 50+ Sunscreen Spray - High Protection Sunscreen Developed for Children. The Maruderm SPF 50+ sunscreen spray developed for children is specifically designed for children's sensitive skin, providing a high level of protection against the harmful UVA and UVB rays of the sun. Thanks to its mild, skin-compatible formula, it minimizes the risk of irritation and gently cares for children's skin.Adults with sun-sensitive skin can also use it.