The difference between sunscreens for children is important at this point. Sunscreens chosen for children can be mineral-based (physical barrier) 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 fall into two categories: physical and chemical. Both sunscreen ingredients have their own benefits. Mineral, or physical, sunscreens as sunscreens suitable for sensitive skin are known. They do not cause much irritation on the skin of children with sensitive skin. They provide broad-spectrum, effective protection. Moreover, they begin to work immediately after application.
Chemical sunscreens penetrate the skin and provide protection against the sun's rays. They absorb UV rays and convert them into heat. This way, there is no damage to the skin. Chemical sunscreens have a transparent structure and do not leave a trace. Unlike physical sunscreens, they do not work immediately. Therefore, they should be applied 20-30 minutes before sun exposure.
How do mineral (physical) sunscreens work?
Mineral or physical sunscreens become active and provide protection immediately after application. Contains 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 as a difference between sunscreens for children can be described.
How do chemical sunscreens work?
Another thing I noticed about the difference between sunscreens for children is can be considered, the chemical composition of sunscreens. Chemical sunscreens contain carbon-based organic compounds. These ingredients do not form a barrier on the skin, they penetrate the skin and absorb the sun's rays. The absorbed sunlight is processed by chemical filters and converted into heat energy. The heat energy is then removed from the skin with the help of vibrations. This way, 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 a few reasons for this. These reasons are as follows:
- Mineral-based sunscreens reflect the sun's rays. The active ingredients are not absorbed into the skin. This means that skin irritation or allergic reactions do not occur.
- The zinc acid and titanium dioxide it contains provide comprehensive protection against both UVA and UVB rays.
- Mineral filters contain more natural substances than chemical filters. For this reason, parents prefer mineral-based sunscreens for their children.
- Physical sunscreens offer a more practical way of application, as they take effect immediately. This is also a plus point, especially for impatient children. Chemical creams take at least 20-30 minutes to absorb into the skin.
- Some mineral creams may have a thicker texture, but they are arguably more beneficial than chemical sunscreens in terms of their content.
Mineral-based sunscreens are more often preferred for children. However, if mineral-based sunscreen If this is not available, chemical sunscreens made with ingredients specifically formulated for children's skin, such as oxybenzone-free sunscreens, may also be more beneficial. However, it is important to pay attention to the issue of allergies at this point.
Comparison: Which one should we avoid?
Both physical and chemical sunscreens contain different ingredients. Some of these can pose risks to the skin. Therefore, it may be worth checking the ingredients when choosing a sunscreen. Recommended ingredients to stay away from include:
- Oxybenzone chemical filter (as it may carry allergic or hormonal risks)
- Octinoxate filter (as it may carry hormonal risks)
- Homosalat filter
- Octisalat filter
- Parabens
- Alcohol
- Synthetic fragrances
- Additives
- Nanoparticles
- Some essential oils
When choosing sunscreen, as with any other product, it's important to check the ingredients. Otherwise, you could be causing unexpected damage to your skin and putting your skin's health at risk.
Dermatologically approved sunscreens
Dermatologically tested means that the product has gone through certain testing stages and has been proven not to cause skin irritation or allergies. Therefore, this is one of the details that must be taken into account when choosing a sunscreen. The product is subjected to tests such as patch tests or usage tests and it is confirmed that it has no side effects. This way, consumers can buy and use the product safely.
Recommendations for safe use on children's skin
Sunscreens preferred for children should generally be physical (mineral) based. Broad spectrum products should be preferred whenever possible, and at the baby's sun cream You should choose a sunscreen with a factor of at least 30. When choosing a sunscreen for children, make sure that it does not contain oxybenzone. This filter can cause hormonal imbalances.
They should be given priority. children's sunscreens , which do not irritate children's sensitive skin and do not contain additives such as fragrance 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. Maruderm SPF 50+ children's sunscreen spray is specially designed for children's sensitive skin, providing a high level of protection against the sun's harmful UVA and UVB rays. Its mild, skin-friendly formula minimizes the risk of irritation and gently cares for children's skin. It can also be used by adults with sun-sensitive skin.