With so many different sunscreens available, it can be hard to know which one is best for protecting your child’s skin. Which SPF? Physical or chemical? How much do I need to apply? Here are the answers to 10 common questions from parents.

By Julie Leduc

1. Which SPF should I choose?

The Canadian Dermatology Association recommends choosing a sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 30 to protect against the sun’s UVB rays. “In practice, however, we recommend a higher SPF because people often don’t apply enough sunscreen for proper protection,” says Dr. Ariane Schreiber, a dermatologist at Hôtel-Dieu hospital in Lévis. She advises parents to use sunscreen with an SPF of 50 or 60.

Bear in mind, though, that just because your sunscreen has a high SPF, that doesn’t mean you should use less of it. Whether the SPF is 30, 50, or even 60, the recommendation remains the same: apply a generous amount of sunscreen and do so frequently.

Sarah Bélanger, a cosmeceutical chemist—known as Miss Derme on social media—also recommends using products with an SPF higher than 30. “An SPF of 30 blocks 96.7% of UVB rays, while an SPF of 50 blocks 98.3%,” she explains. In other words, an SPF of 50 lets through only 1.7% of UVB rays—almost half as much UVB radiation as an SPF of 30. In addition to the SPF, you should also look for the words “broad spectrum” or the “UVA” logo on the label.

2. Chemical or physical sunscreen: Which should you choose?

“Chemical and physical sunscreens essentially work the same way,” explains Sarah Bélanger. Chemical sunscreens absorb UV rays. Physical sunscreens (also known as mineral sunscreens) also block UV rays, mainly by absorbing them, but also by reflecting about 5% of rays, Bélanger explains.

Physical sunscreens are harder to spread and can leave white marks on things like strollers. “Despite this drawback, it’s recommended to use physical sunscreens for children under 2 years of age because they’re gentler on skin,” says Dr. Ariane Schreiber.

After age 2, you can choose any sunscreen you like. “There is no scientific evidence showing that chemical sunscreens are bad for children,” says the dermatologist. Even if a small amount of their ingredients is absorbed into the skin, chemical sunscreens can be used safely on children.

To find out whether a sunscreen is chemical or physical (mineral), check the ingredients. Physical sunscreens contain mineral-based ingredients such as zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. Chemical sunscreens, on the other hand, contain ingredients such as Mexoryl, avobenzone, homosalate, octocrylene, and octisalate.

3. Is more expensive sunscreen better for my child’s skin?

No. Some more expensive products may have a nicer texture or scent, but sunscreens with the same SPF should offer the same protection regardless of price. Sarah Bélanger warns parents against expensive products. “If you pay more for it, you may be tempted to use less so it lasts longer.” Instead, she advises parents to choose a product they like and will want to apply often and generously.

4. Can I put sunscreen on my baby?

Before 6 months of age, babies’ skin is very sensitive. “You should keep your baby out of the sun as much as possible before the age of 6 months: Stay in the shade, put a wide-brimmed hat on them, and dress them in clothes that keep them covered up,” says Dr. Ariane Schreiber. “While sunscreen shouldn’t be your first line of defence at this age, you can apply a small amount of mineral sunscreen (physical sunscreen) to areas of the skin that remain exposed, such as their hands and cheeks. A little sunscreen on their skin is definitely better than a sunburn.”

5. Can I use adult sunscreen on my baby or child?

According to the dermatologist and the chemist, absolutely! The important thing is to look for the features you want on the packaging. For example: a mineral-based formulation, high SPF, broad-spectrum protection, and no fragrance. Adults can also use children’s sunscreens. “Besides, it’s cheaper and more convenient to buy one big bottle of sunscreen for the whole family,” says Sarah Bélanger. Dr. Ariane Schreiber adds that sunscreens for children are often oilier, fragrance-free, and less irritating.

6. Is homemade sunscreen better than store-bought sunscreen?

Not at all. According to chemist Sarah Bélanger, it’s impossible to achieve reliable sun protection with a homemade sunscreen. “Over-the-counter sunscreens are regulated and tested to verify their efficacy and SPF. Formulating sunscreen is hard,” she explains. Homemade recipes usually call for mineral filters (e.g., zinc oxide) mixed into any kind of cream, but it’s very difficult to distribute the filters uniformly.

7. Are spray-on sunscreens as effective as lotions?

The problem with spray-on sunscreens is that the amount of sunscreen that actually gets on the skin is often less than what’s needed for proper protection. According to dermatologist Ariane Schreiber, parents should opt for lotions instead. However, she adds that if you do use a spray-on sunscreen, you should apply a generous amount and then spread it evenly over your child’s skin. It’s best to spray the sunscreen onto your hands before applying it. Make sure to spray the product in a well-ventilated area to avoid inhaling it.

8. How much sunscreen should I put on my child, and how often?

You’ll need 15 to 30 ml (1 to 2 tablespoons) to cover your child head to toe, regardless of the SPF. Use about 1 teaspoon for their face and neck, 2 teaspoons for their chest and back, 1 teaspoon for their arms, and 2 teaspoons for their legs. If you use a chemical sunscreen, you should apply it to your child 15 to 30 minutes before going outside, to allow time for a protective layer to form on their skin. “You need to apply a generous amount and reapply it at least every two hours or after each swim,” says Dr. Schreiber. Don’t forget to protect your child with a hat and long clothing as well.

9. What should you do with expired sunscreen?

After the expiration date, the product’s safety and efficacy are no longer guaranteed. That means it’s best to throw away expired sunscreen even if it’s unopened. “The formula may still be stable,” Sarah Bélanger acknowledges, “But there’s no way to know for sure. When it comes to products designed to protect us from sun damage and prevent skin cancer, it’s best not to take any chances.”

Some sunscreens also include a “period-after-opening” (PAO), represented on the label by an open jar symbol along with a number and the letter M for months (e.g., “12M” for 12 months). This tells you how long the product will remain effective after it has been opened. “If a product has both a PAO and an expiration date, follow whichever comes first,” says the chemist. For example, if your sunscreen has a PAO of 12 months and you opened it at the beginning of last summer, then you should throw it out this summer, even if it hasn’t expired yet.

Sunscreen can also break down in the heat and lose its effectiveness. Do not use a sunscreen that has changed in smell or texture.

10. Can you trust the labels on sunscreen bottles?

Dr. Ariane Schreiber recommends looking for the Canadian Dermatology Association (CDA) logo. This logo indicates that the product has an SPF of at least 30, offers broad-spectrum protection, is minimally perfumed or non-perfumed, and is formulated to avoid skin irritation. It’s a handy reference for parents. You should also look for the words “water-resistant” label if your child swims. The packaging should also include a DIN (Drug Identification Number) or an NPN (Natural Product Number). These 8-digit Health Canada codes are required for sales in Canada.

Health Canada accepts other claims such as “pediatrician tested” or “dermatologist recommended.” These claims aren’t bad, but they’re more like marketing pitches. So that’s not what you should look at first.

To learn more, read our fact sheet on sunscreen and children (in French).

Source: Naître et grandir magazine, July–August 2026 Research and copywriting: Julie Leduc

Photos (in order): GettyImages/Anchiy, GettyImages/emholk, GettyImages/ljubaphoto, GettyImages/MmeEmil, GettyImages/ArtMarie, GettyImages/chanakon laorob