Sunscreen can help prevent skin damage and sunburn, and lower the risk of skin cancer. Put sunscreen on your child when they are outside, even on cloudy days.  

Protect the skin from the sun:

• For babies under 6 months old: It's best to keep them in the shade or cover their skin with clothing. If needed, use sunscreen only on small areas of exposed skin that aren't covered by clothing or in the shade.
• For kids 6 months of age and older: Apply sunscreen whenever they're outside (even when it's cloudy). The sunscreen should:
  • Have an SPF (sun protection factor) of 30 or higher
  • Protect against both UVA and UVB rays (a "broad-spectrum" sunscreen)
  • Be water-resistant (if your child will be sweating or swimming)
• Use sunscreen correctly:
  • Apply sunscreen 15–30 minutes before your child goes outside. 
  • Reapply every 2 hours, or more often if your child is swimming or sweating. 
  • For kids over 6 months old, apply generously to all exposed skin, including tops of the feet, ears, back of the neck, and scalp where the hair parts. 
• Have your child avoid the strongest sun of the day when possible (between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.).
• Help your child choose shade when possible.
• Have your child wear light, protective clothing and a hat when out in the sun.

Other reminders:

• Choose the type of sunscreen (lotion, cream, stick, or spray) that is easiest for you to use. If using a spray, spray it onto your hands first, then put it on your child's skin. Otherwise it's easy to miss spots.
• Protect your child's eyes from the sun with child-sized sunglasses with at least 99% ultraviolet radiation (UV) protection.
• Don't use sunscreen that has expired, is more than 3 years old, or has changed in color or appearance.
• If your child takes medicine that makes them sensitive to the sun, talk to your health care provider about any special precautions to take. 

How does sunscreen work? The ultraviolet rays in sunshine can cause sunburn, skin cancer, cataracts, and early skin aging. Even on cloudy or cold days, the ultraviolet rays from the sun can cause harm. Sunscreen blocks ultraviolet rays and protects the skin from damage.

Can sunscreen prevent kids from getting enough vitamin D? Most kids get enough vitamin D from their diet and, if needed, vitamin D supplements. If your child has low vitamin D, or if you have concerns about their vitamin D level, talk to their health care provider about what else you can do.