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India Today
5 days ago
- General
- India Today
Understanding SPF for Children: What every mother in India should know
India's climate, defined by long summers, intense sunlight, and increasingly unpredictable weather, poses unique challenges for parents trying to protect their children from sun damage. While sunscreen is a familiar part of adult skincare, many Indian parents are still unsure about when to introduce sun protection for kids. Is sunscreen safe for toddlers? What level of SPF is enough? How often should it be reapplied?advertisementWith UV levels rising across the subcontinent and cases of skin sensitivity and sun damage increasing even in children, it's time we look at SPF not just as a cosmetic afterthought, but as an everyday CHILDREN NEED SUN PROTECTION Children's skin is much more delicate and permeable than adults', making it more vulnerable to UV rays. According to dermatologists, just a few blistering sunburns during childhood can significantly increase the risk of skin cancer later in life, including more concerning is that up to 80% of lifetime sun exposure typically happens before the age of 18. Sun protection in the early years isn't optional, but it is a long-term investment in a child's 101: WHAT IT MEANS AND WHY IT MATTERSSPF, or Sun Protection Factor, refers to how effectively a sunscreen protects against UVB rays, the ones responsible for sunburn and skin cancer. Here's a quick reference:SPF 15 blocks ~93% of UVB raysSPF 30 blocks ~97%SPF 50 blocks ~98%advertisementThough the differences seem minor, they can be meaningful for children who spend extended hours in the sun. Also, higher SPF does not mean longer wear; reapplication every two hours remains WHAT ABOUT UVA?While SPF measures UVB protection, UVA rays penetrate deeper into the skin and cause long-term cellular damage, ageing, and pigmentation. Look for sunscreens labelled broad-spectrum, meaning they shield from both UVA and UVB THE RIGHT SUNSCREEN FOR CHILDRENWith India's growing skincare market, there are now several options specifically formulated for children. But not all are created equal. Here's what to look for:SPF 30 or higher – Suitable for Indian sun conditionsMineral-based formulations – Ingredients like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide are gentle and non-irritatingFragrance-free, hypoallergenic – Ideal for sensitive young skinBroad-spectrum protection – Guards against both UVA and UVBWater-resistant – A must for playtime, especially during summer vacationsEXPERT SPEAK: WHY MOMS SHOULDN'T SKIP THE SUNSCREEN'The misconception that children don't need sunscreen, especially on cloudy days or in winter, is still prevalent in many Indian households,' says Ms. Shaily Mehrotra,CEO and Co-founder, at Fixderma Skincare, a dermatologically backed skincare brand. 'But UV radiation is constant year-round and can penetrate through clouds and even windows. Starting sun protection early builds a habit and significantly reduces long-term skin risks.' HOW TO APPLY SUNSCREEN THE RIGHT WAYApply 15–30 minutes before going outdoorsUse a generous amount – about a teaspoon for the face and a shot-glass size for the bodyCover all exposed areas – don't forget ears, neck, backs of hands, feet and scalp if every two hours, or after swimming/sweatingAvoid sun exposure between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. when UV rays are strongestSUNSCREEN ISN'T ENOUGH—LAYER THE PROTECTIONTo truly safeguard your child's skin, sunscreen should be combined with:Protective clothing – Long sleeves in breathable fabricsHats and sunglasses – For facial and eye protectionShade-seeking habits – Encourage children to play in shaded areas during peak hoursMAKE IT A ROUTINE, NOT A REMINDERChildren learn through habits. Just like brushing their teeth or washing their hands becomes second nature, applying sunscreen should also be a part of their daily routine, especially before going outdoors. Encourage them to take part in the process by allowing them to apply the sunscreen themselves, with supervision. You can also create enjoyable rituals, like 'sun shield time,' to make it more INDIAN CONTEXT: WHY IT'S EVEN MORE IMPORTANT HEREIndia's proximity to the equator results in higher UV index levels throughout the year, regardless of the season. Additionally, increasing air pollution ironically exacerbates UV damage by thinning the ozone layer, making the need for early sun protection even more critical. A mother's instinct is to protect her child, and when it comes to sun exposure, that protection starts with knowledge. Understanding SPF and incorporating sunscreen into your child's daily routine is essential not only for preventing tans or burns but also for safeguarding their skin health for years to come. As Ms. Mehrotra emphasises, 'Sun protection in childhood lays the foundation for lifelong skin health. It's one of the simplest and most effective habits a parent can pass on.' So, the next time you head out with your child, don't forget to bring that little bottle of sunscreen. Although it may be small, its impact can last a lifetime.
India Today
20-05-2025
- Health
- India Today
Does sunscreen expire? Everything you need to know about shelf life and safety
We all know the golden rules of sun protection: use a broad-spectrum SPF 30 (or higher) every day, and reapply it every two hours no exceptions. But there's one often-overlooked detail that could be sabotaging your sun safety efforts: the expiration date on your sunscreen easy to ignore, especially when the product looks and smells fine. But just like any other skincare product, sunscreen has a shelf life and using it past that point can come with serious consequences. Below, skincare expert Shaily Mehrotra, founder of FCL Skincare, explains why you should pay close attention to expiration dates and how to maximise your sunscreen's VS. MINERAL SUNSCREENS: WHICH LASTS LONGER?When it comes to shelf life, mineral sunscreens (also known as physical sunscreens) tend to have the upper hand. These typically contain zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, ingredients that remain stable even when exposed to light. Chemical sunscreens, on the other hand, rely on molecules that can break down and oxidise over time, reducing their said, both types are generally formulated to last up to three years, as long as they're unopened and stored properly, away from heat and DOES SUNSCREEN EXPIRE?'All skincare products eventually degrade, and sunscreen is no exception,' says Shaily. Over time, active ingredients lose their potency, making the formula less effective or completely ineffective at shielding your skin from harmful UV LONG DOES SUNSCREEN LAST AFTER OPENING?In addition to the printed expiration date, many sunscreens also carry a 'period after opening' symbol. This tells you how many months the product remains safe to use after it's been opened, which is typically 6 to 12 YOU USE EXPIRED SUNSCREEN?advertisementTechnically, if the product has been stored in ideal conditions and doesn't show signs of spoilage, it might still offer some protection. However, Shaily cautions against it.'Even if it looks okay, expired sunscreen isn't reliable,' she warns. 'It may not protect against UV damage and could irritate your skin.'WHAT HAPPENS IF YOU USE EXPIRED SUNSCREEN?Using expired sunscreen can leave your skin vulnerable to sunburn, premature ageing, and even skin cancer. Once past its expiration date, the formula may separate, meaning the UV filters won't distribute evenly, leaving parts of your skin formulas can also harbour bacteria or yeast, leading to irritation, rashes, or breakouts. 'The chemical stability, texture, and safety of the product are all compromised,' adds line: if in doubt, toss it TO STORE SUNSCREEN FOR MAXIMUM SHELF LIFEProper storage makes a big difference. Keep sunscreen in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight. 'Heat and light can cause some formulas to break down faster,' says Shaily. 'A drawer or cabinet at room temperature is ideal—better yet, choose a cool, dark spot.''Sunscreen expiration dates are there for a reason,' Shaily emphasises. 'They're not just about UV protection—they also ensure the product's texture, stability, and sterility remain intact.'So before you head out into the sun, give your sunscreen a quick check. Your skin will thank you.
