Looking for a product your family can use and totally trust? We're here to answer some of your most frequently asked questions regarding sun-safety for babies and kids.
What sunscreen should I use on my baby?
As babies under six months old have very sensitive skin which is more likely to experience a reaction, the use of sunscreen is not generally recommended. In situations where it can't be avoided, you’re better off using a safe sunscreen occasionally, than exposing your baby to direct sun.
An infant's skin possesses little melanin, the pigment that gives colour to skin, hair and eyes and provides some sun protection. Therefore, babies are especially susceptible to the sun's damaging effects. If you are to use sunscreen, be sure to use a broad spectrum formula of at least SPF 50+. And remember, when introducing new products, always begin with a patch test to note any reactions.
Our Sensitive Sunscreen SPF 50+ and our all new Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50+ are both suitable for babies six months +. They are both fragrance free and dermatologically tested for those with sensitive skin. In fact, our Sensitive Sunscreen SPF 50+ is our reigning #1 best selling product and is highly regarded for use on babies and children, amongst those with sensitive skin.
If you’d prefer to use a sunscreen with less 'active' ingredients, we recommend using our Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50+ which is a mineral based, physical sunscreen formulated using new, micronised zinc oxide technology. Don't worry, this product isn't just for babies! In fact, it can be used by anyone, big or small, those with sensitive skin, or anyone who prefers a mineral based formula.
Be sure to check that the sunscreen you use is approved by the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA). Sunscreens with an SPF rating higher than 15 must be approved and licensed by the TGA, as it is considered a medical grade product. The TGA maintains strict guidelines for sunscreen approval and licensing, including rigorous independent testing. They must meet mandatory requirements for labelling, advertising, testing and ingredient requirements.
What else can I do to protect my baby from the sun?
Apply sunscreen on your baby 20 minutes before going outside and reapply every hour (if using Mineral SPF 50+) or every 2 hours (if using Sensitive Sunscreen SPF 50+). But don’t stop there!
Ensure your baby’s face, neck and ears are protected with a wide-brimmed hat and cover as much of their skin as possible. Choose cool, loose, long-sleeved clothing made from densely woven fabrics. Seek shade and aim to minimise your time outside between 10am-4pm during the summer period when UV levels are their strongest.
Can I use sunscreen on my child if they have eczema?
The exact cause of eczema is still unknown and to date, there is no cure. Triggers differ from person to person, so if you’re not yet sure of what causes your child’s eczema, we recommend starting a two-week diary. Write down what’s changing from day to day, and how your child’s skin reacts based on your child’s surroundings.
Skincare products that contain synthetic fragrances can also cause allergic skin reactions which lead to eczema. There are a number of ingredients in sunscreen that can cause the skin to sting, burn or itch and prompt your child’s eczema. These reactions can be caused by a variety of ingredients including UV filters (mineral & chemical), fragrances or common cosmetic natural ingredients.
We recommend using fragrance free skincare products. However, it is extremely important you always do a patch test on your child before applying sunscreen (or any skin related products).
What if my child has a reaction?
As mentioned, it’s extremely important to do a patch test on your child before applying sunscreen. Our Sensitive Sunscreen SPF 50+ and Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50+ are both fragrance free and dermatologically tested for sensitive skin. They are free from PABAs, parabens, oxybenzone and octinoxate. If a reaction still occurs, it’s best to see your family doctor.
Can I use sunscreen when pregnant?
During pregnancy, your skin can be more sensitive, so it’s important to cover up. Sunscreen which has been approved by the TGA is safe to use during pregnancy. If you are worried, it’s advised to speak to your doctor.
Our Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50+ provides broad spectrum UVA + UVB protection and is water resistant up to 80 minutes. This fragrance free, gentle formula is paraben, PABA, octinoxate and oxybenzone free. Unlike other physical, zinc only sunscreens, Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50+ is lightweight, non-greasy and rubs in clear.
Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50+ is formulated for the whole family. It can be used by anyone, big or small, those with sensitive skin, or anyone who prefers a mineral based formula. Our mantra is to find a sunscreen you love and actually WANT to wear, which is why we like to provide options.
We know the name makes it a little confusing and often people believe this product is only suitable for babies, which is not the case. As mentioned, anyone over 6 months + can use our mineral based formula. So, this mighty mineral will be having a makeover later in the year but fear not Baby Mineral fans, nothing about the formula is changing, just the name to make it a little more inclusive!
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