020: The Sunscreen Issue— for pregnancy, breastfeeding, kids, and more!
Plus: 11 great blocks for every summer scenario, getting toddlers to wear it, and thoughts on the invisible labor of it all
Sunscreen. It’s a summer staple. A skin savior. An everyday (OK, hopefully everyday) thing. The smell of nostalgia, even.
On one hand, sunblock is simple: All skin needs sunscreen; the best blocks are broad-spectrum, meaning they effectively protect your skin from harmful UVA and UVB rays; apply about a shot’s glass worth of sunblock all over the body about 15 to 30 minutes before you’ll be in the sun, and voilà—you’re good to go.
But sometimes, sunscreen can feel (and be) complicated—particularly throughout the perinatal period of pregnancy, through postpartum, and into parenthood. There are battles with toddlers about wearing it. There are questions about what type of blocks are safe in pregnancy, while breastfeeding, or for use on sensitive baby skin. There are time issues: What can I get on three kids the fastest as we quite literally run out the door?
Maybe you haven’t given sunblock much thought; maybe you’ve given it entirely *too much* thought and are still without the answers you want.
If you take nothing else from this issue—a summer primer on 11 must-know facts about sunscreen—consider these words from Corey L. Hartman, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and the founder of Skin Wellness Dermatology in Birmingham, AL, and one of the experts we tapped to help us write this piece:
“The more frequently skin is exposed to the sun without sun protection, the more likely the skin will prematurely age—which means sun spots, age spots, wrinkles, and fine lines. Those are the best-case scenarios; the worst case is that you develop skin cancer. Just one blistering sunburn doubles the risk of getting melanoma, the most deadly form. It’s important to talk to your children about sun protection so they turn it into a habit at a young age, just like brushing their teeth. And you need to model that behavior as a parent as well, applying and reapplying sunscreen on yourself.”
This message might sound alarming, but we’re not sharing it to scare you. We’re sharing it as a bit of encouragement and affirmation that—when it comes to sunscreen and so much else—the little things you do to care for yourself, and your family, matter. The extra minutes of effort spent slathering sunscreen on squirmy kids adds up; it makes a difference, even when that everyday effort isn’t acknowledged.
For this issue of TT, we consulted three board-certified derms for what parents need to know about sunscreen—both for themselves and their children. Below, you’ll find their answers: 11 SPF truths that’ll hopefully help you enjoy the summer sun a little bit more safely and stress-free.
Meet our experts:
Aegean Chan, MD, FAAD is a dual board-certified dermatologist and dermatopathologist who practices in Santa Barbara and Solvang, CA. Follow Dr. Chan on Instagram.
Corey L. Hartman, MD, FAAD is a board-certified dermatologist and the founder of Skin Wellness Dermatology in Birmingham, AL. Follow Dr. Hartman on Instagram.
Ranella Hirsch, MD, FAAD is a board-certified dermatologist and former president of the American Society of Cosmetic Dermatology and Aesthetic Surgery. She is currently at work on a set of novel dermatology techniques and technologies and practices in Cambridge, MA. Follow Dr. Hirsch on Instagram.
#1. Sunscreen is important *and* it’s just one part of a solid ultraviolet (UV) protection plan. The FDA urges everyone to use sunscreen as well as other sun protective measures. After all, the American Cancer Society (ACA) points out that even with proper sunscreen use, some UV rays still get through to your skin. That’s why every derm we spoke to (and the ACA) recommends a few other moves to prevent harmful sun exposure—namely, obsessively seeking shade, avoiding direct sun between the hours of 10 A.M. and 2 P.M. (when rays are strongest), and wearing (or using) Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF) gear (more on that later).
#2. Sunblock has two forms: chemical blockers, or physical/mineral blockers. Chemical sunscreens convert and neutralize ultraviolet light radiation, protecting you from sun damage; physical/mineral blockers reflect the sun’s rays. Look at labels: Zinc oxide and titanium dioxide are physical/mineral blockers. Names like avobenzone, oxybenzone, octocrylene, or octisalate are chemical blockers. In recent years, some states, such as Hawaii, have banned some chemical sunscreen ingredients due to concerns about their impact on coral reefs. Newer FDA research has also called for more safety data on some chemical ingredients in sunscreens.
#3. For babies under 6 months, skip sunblock and avoid the sun. That’s per the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP). Young bebes’ skin barriers are less robust and more susceptible to serious burns, allergic reactions, or side effects from sunscreen, explains Dr. Chan. When outside, “keep the baby in the shade, wearing hats, or even covered with a light blanket,” she suggests.
#4. At 6 months, babies can start using sunscreen. Most derms, as well as the AAP, recommend mineral blockers over chemical ones for babies and kids. They’re less likely to irritate young skin or cause allergic reactions, explains Dr. Chan. When your little one is a bit bigger, it becomes safer to use chemical blockers (as the skin barrier grows more robust as kids get older “and there is less risk of sensitization and allergy development,” says Dr. Chan). Just keep an eye on things. “Some chemical sunscreen ingredients, especially avobenzone, can cause a burning or stinging sensation in the eyes,” says Dr. Chan. “If this is the case for your child, use mineral sunscreens instead.”
#5. Applying sunscreen is a teachable skill. Read: You won’t be the one doing it forever! Dr. Hirsch recommends getting kids involved in the process as early as they’re interested and able, or around age two. Try sunscreen sticks, which are easy for small hands to grip, or look for a foam formula that kids will find “completely enchanting,” says Dr. Hirsch. Parent/child educator and play expert Jennie Monness also suggests singing and letting your children put sunblock on you as well. “We use applicator brushes, too,” she tells Two Truths.
#6. Sunblock can go bad. Yep, sunscreen expires. The FDA requires that all sunscreens remain “stable” for at least three years. Sometimes, you’ll find an expiration date on the label; if you don’t, write the date you bought the block on the bottle and consider it expired after three years. Also worth knowing: Hot and cold temps, and even light, can degrade ingredients in sunscreens and weaken their effectiveness. Store sunblock somewhere dark and at room temperature; and if you notice changes in consistency, color, or smell, throw it away.
#7. Use sprays with caution. Some groups suggest skipping spray sunscreens, noting they can pose serious inhalation risks; the AAP also recommends lotions over sprays for this reason. Beyond respiratory concerns, it’s also difficult to know how much coverage you’re really getting. The AAP suggests applying spray sunscreen to your hands first, and then rubbing it onto children, to avoid inhalation. If you are spraying directly onto your child’s skin, spray outside or in a space that’s highly ventilated.
#8. Pregnant skin may be more sensitive to the sun and sun care products. In general, pregnancy can dry your skin out, especially in areas where there’s stretching (i.e. your stomach), says Dr. Chan. And dry skin is more prone to irritation, is more sensitive, and may be more likely to burn because of that. Notice your favorite sunscreen is leaving you itchy? Pregnancy-related skin changes could cause reactions to products you may have tolerated prior to pregnancy. Hormones can also exacerbate dark spots and conditions such as melasma, so it’s important to be even more diligent with sun protection.
#9. Some sunscreen ingredients can make their way into breast milk, but there’s no proven harm in that. “Two common sunscreen ingredients, oxybenzone and octocrylene, have both been found in breastmilk; however, no harm to infants has been demonstrated,” explains Dr. Chan. “You do not need to completely avoid these filters, but if you prefer to be cautious, you can choose to use sunscreens without them.”
#10. Pregnant? The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) does suggest avoiding an ingredient called oxybenzone, present in some chemical sunscreens. Oxybenzone has raised red flags as a potential endocrine disruptor (and separately, it’s also one of the ingredients that have been banned in Hawaii due to environmental impact). Dr. Chan notes that many sunscreen manufacturers are also phasing out the use of this chemical filter because of its high allergenic potential, “so you may want to avoid it for that reason.” (Note: None of our sunscreen recommendations below include this ingredient.)
#11. The bottom line: The best sunscreen is the one you’ll use. Sunscreen is of paramount importance in preventing skin cancer in grownups and kids by shielding us from the sun’s harmful rays. Using sunscreen—any sunscreen—is always better than not using sunscreen.
The SPF Superlatives
Since the “best” sunscreen is the one you love enough to use consistently, we partnered with five sunscreen brands to bring you six picks for all sorts of summer scenarios. The blocks below represent a range of different filters, formulas, and ingredients—from invisible serums to “smart” sticks to buttery, blendable lotions.
Special thanks to Eucerin, Julep Beauty, Mama Sol, SunPlus, and Shiseido for supporting Two Truths and helping to make this edition possible.
Best For Getting Glowy: Eucerin Sun Sensitive Tinted Mineral Face Lotion SPF 35
It’s not often that a sunscreen inspires compliments, but that’s exactly what happened when Kelsey wore this tinted lotion to a family picnic and was deemed “so glowy” by her cousins. In addition to offering UVA/UVB protection with SPF 35, this sunscreen offers just enough coverage to either replace foundation or provide a perfectly primed base to build from. The creamy formula blends into all skin tones. Plus, it’s packed with good stuff, including five antioxidants (vitamin E and vitamin C, to name two), and free of irritants (like fragrance, dyes, parabens, PABA, and phthalates).
Active ingredients…
Zinc oxide
Shop it…
At major retailers ($14)
Best For Precious Baby Skin: Eucerin Baby Sensitive Mineral Lotion SPF 50
When it comes to our kids, we want products to be pure, gentle, and effective—which is exactly what Eucerin’s dermatologist-recommended products deliver. This just-thick-enough cream checks all our important boxes (it’s an SPF 50 mineral block) and rubs in so easily that a toddler can do it. (Just ask Kelsey’s daughter, who was very relieved that no eye stinging occurred during their test runs. Shout-out to the fragrance-free, tear-free formula made without oil, dyes, parabens, PABA, phthalates, and chemical filters for that.) And did we mention that the zinc oxide is naturally sourced?
Active ingredients…
Zinc oxide
Shop it…
Amazon ($14); also available at other major retailers
Best Addition to a Beauty Routine: Julep No Excuses Broad Spectrum Invisible Sunscreen Gel For Face SPF 40
Calling all skincare-obsessed: This invisible gel by Julep feels like it’s part sunscreen, part serum—making it an excellent addition to your easy, A.M. beauty routine. The formula boasts broad-spectrum SPF 40 and contains complexion-boosting ingredients like rosehip oil (to even skin tone), aloe leaf extract (to soothe and hydrate), and sunflower seed oil (to nourish and repair). We love that the weightless block shields the skin from environmental damage and offers completely invisible hydration—meaning you can apply (and reapply!) without worrying about whether it’s rubbed in.
Active ingredients…
Avobenzone, homosalate, octisalate, and octocrylene
Shop it…
Amazon ($24), Julep ($28)
Best For Busy Moms: Mama Sol 100% Mineral Moisturizing Sunscreen SPF 30
This summer, we say do less—and that means streamlining your skincare routine. Mama Sol’s mineral sunscreen works as a three-in-one daily moisturizer, makeup primer, and SPF 30 block. The lightweight, broad-spectrum cream rubs on white (so you can see where you’ve applied it) but melts right into your skin with the warmth of your fingertips. The formula shields the skin from infrared radiation, blue light due to screens or devices (which can shrink cells and accelerate aging), and pollution. Plus, with high-performance, highly hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid and squalane, you can save time (and cash) you might otherwise shell out on other products.
Active ingredients…
Non-nano zinc oxide
Shop it…
Treesy ($44), MamaSol ($44)
Best for Outdoor Adventures: Shiseido x World Surf League Limited Edition Clear Sunscreen Stick SPF 50+
You know we love a duo—and this limited-edition collaboration between iconic beauty brand Shiseido and the World Surf League is no exception. Benefitting the Shiseido Blue Project (a global effort to promote the protection of our oceans), the collab includes both a lotion and a stick option—our pick for easy, on-the-go, kid-friendly application (Cassie’s toddlers love to do it themselves before daily swim lessons), and sheer convenience. The formula’s standout feature is the special technology that actually strengthens the protective filter when it senses water, sweat, or heat—meaning it can stand up to whatever comes your way this summer.
Active ingredients…
Avobenzone, octisalate, homosalate, and octocrylene
Shop it…
Shiseido ($30)
Best Hybrid Block: SunPlus Laguna Everyday Inspired Sunscreen SPF 40
Want the best of both worlds when it comes to blocks? SunPlus uses both mineral and chemical filters—with natural derivatives (grape and sunflower seed oils) as an added bonus. The result is a lotion that feels luxe, blendable, and moisturizing. (No surprise that you’ll find it at some of the world’s most elite resorts.) We love that the company also uses eco-friendly, veggie-based packaging and donates 3% of their sales to orgs that support the “oceans, land, and people” (such as care.org and the Yosemite Conservancy, currently).
Active ingredients…
Non-nano zinc oxide, octinoxate, and octisalate
Shop it…
SunPlus ($24)
Our Favorite UPF Essentials
We believe in working smarter, not harder when it comes to the balance of sun and fun. And let’s be real: “Putting your toddler in a long-sleeved bathing suit with UPF protection is much easier than chasing them around the pool trying to reapply sunscreen,” says Dr. Chan. Enter: UPF on anything and everything, from the obvious (swimsuits, ofc) to the extra (stroller canopies).
Many strollers feature UPF canopies, so check to make sure yours does. We love Mockingbird’s UPF 50+ canopy (it’s decorated with B&W patterns to stimulate baby’s brain) and Colugo's The Compact stroller (big, UPF 50+ shade on a smaller, travel-friendly ride). Runner? Thule’s Urban Glide 2 has a UPF 50+ canopy and is slim and light enough to double as an everyday stroller (grab the bassinet attachment if your baby is under 6 months).
Currently simplifying swim lessons (and making it much easier for toddlers to hit the potty): this rashguard top and shorts set by Mori, one of our faves for ultra-comfy, organic, and sustainable basics for babes.
For all the times you just need to stick your kid in something that can keep them safe and shaded—and maybe even encourage a nap—we love The California Beach Co.’s pop-up playpen, which sets up in seconds to provide UPF 50 coverage.
Keep this in your summer tote and prepare to be amazed at how often it will come in handy: Coolibar’s UPF 50 blanket, available in 12 colors/prints.
After seeing a preschool teacher carrying one during drop-off duty, we’re starting a petition to make parasols a thing again. This mini option offers UPF 50 protection and, at the size of an iPhone, is easy to stash in your bag for those times you get unexpectedly stuck in the sun.
For a matchy family moment, we’re obsessed with SwimZip’s gingham line: Currently eyeing the sunsuit for babies, surf suit or swim set for toddlers, a cutout bikini for moms, and classic swim shorts for dads. (Also love the zip-up rashguards that can be worn over any suit.)
Which sunscreens and sun protection essentials are your current favorites right now? Share your recommendations in the comments! —Cassie and Kelsey