The 3 Most Common Sunscreen Mistakes Parents Make

When the sun is shining and the kids are ready to play outside, sunscreen often becomes a last-minute addition to your outing. A quick dab here, a spray there, and off they go — but when it comes to protecting delicate young skin, shortcuts can lead to serious mistakes. Despite the best intentions, many parents unknowingly make common errors when it comes to sunscreen, leaving their children vulnerable to sunburn, premature skin damage, and long-term risks like skin cancer.

Young skin is more sensitive to UV radiation than adult skin. Babies and toddlers have thinner, more absorbent skin and less melanin, which means they burn faster and can suffer more harm from the sun in a shorter time. That’s why pediatric dermatologists emphasize the importance of proper sunscreen use — especially during the warmer months or in sunny climates. But are you applying it the right way?

One of the biggest mistakes parents make is not using enough sunscreen. Most people apply only a third to half of the recommended amount. When you under-apply, the SPF level is significantly reduced. If you’re using an SPF 50 sunscreen but apply too little, your child might actually be getting the protection of an SPF 15 or less. For kids, it’s important to use about a teaspoon of sunscreen for the face and neck and a full shot-glass amount (around 30 ml) for the entire body. Don’t forget easy-to-miss areas like the tops of ears, the back of the neck, and the tops of feet.

Another mistake is not reapplying often enough. Sunscreen isn’t a one-and-done deal, especially for active children. Running, sweating, swimming, and even towel-drying can wear off that protective layer. Most sunscreens are labeled to last around two hours, but in reality, reapplication is needed sooner when kids are in the water or being very active. Make it a habit to reapply every 80 minutes, or immediately after swimming or sweating. Water-resistant formulas like Photoderm Kid are designed to stay on better, but no sunscreen is completely waterproof.

The third common mistake is relying solely on sunscreen for sun protection. While SPF is essential, it shouldn’t be the only line of defense. For babies under six months old, direct sun exposure should be avoided altogether. For toddlers and older children, sun hats, long-sleeved shirts, and playing in shaded areas between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. can offer extra protection. Think of sunscreen as just one part of a larger sun safety strategy. And always check the ingredients if your child has sensitive skin or allergies. Physical or mineral sunscreens containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide are often better tolerated by young skin than chemical sunscreens.

Choosing the right product also makes a difference. A sunscreen specially formulated for children, like Photoderm Kid, offers high SPF (usually SPF 50+), is water-resistant, and often includes ingredients that are safe for young, sensitive skin. Many of these formulas are fragrance-free and hypoallergenic, which lowers the risk of irritation.

Sometimes parents assume that a cloudy day or a quick walk outside doesn’t require sunscreen. This is another oversight. Up to 80% of UV rays can pass through clouds, and sun exposure adds up throughout the day, even in small amounts. Protecting your child’s skin needs to be consistent — not just for beach days or summer vacations.

Educating kids about sun safety as early as possible can also help them develop lifelong habits. Involve them in the process by letting them choose their sunscreen bottle or help with applying it. It’s a simple way to make a necessary task more fun and less of a struggle.

Ultimately, the goal isn’t perfection — it’s consistency and awareness. By avoiding these three common mistakes — using too little, forgetting to reapply, and relying only on sunscreen — you’ll dramatically improve your child’s protection. And with the right product, like a kid-friendly, broad-spectrum sunscreen that’s water-resistant and designed for sensitive skin, you’ll feel more confident sending your little ones out into the sun. Safely, of course.