Should children only wear sun cream in hot weather?

As the weather begins to warm up and the days grow longer, many families naturally start thinking about sun protection. But a common misconception persists: that sun cream is only necessary when the sun feels strong or the temperatures are high.

In fact, protecting your child’s skin from the sun should not be limited to the height of summer. Sun safety is important throughout the year, even on cooler spring days. Here is why:

Mother applying sunscreen protection creme on cute little toddler boy face. Mom using sunblocking lotion to protect baby from sun during summer sea vacation. Children healthcare at travel time.

UV rays are still strong – even when it is not hot

Ultraviolet (UV) radiation is responsible for most sun-related skin damage, not the temperature. UV rays can penetrate clouds and remain strong on overcast or mild days. This means your child can still be at risk of sunburn, even when it does not feel particularly warm.

Cumulative exposure matters

Skin damage from the sun builds up over time. Regular exposure, even in small doses, can increase the risk of long-term damage, including premature ageing and skin cancer. Developing good habits early – such as applying sun cream before outdoor play – helps to reduce these risks.

More time outside in spring and early summer

As the weather improves, children naturally spend more time outdoors – in parks, playgrounds, gardens and school fields at break time. However, this increase in outdoor activity often occurs before sun protection becomes part of the daily routine. It is important to be mindful of this shift and adjust accordingly.

Children’s skin is more vulnerable

Young skin is thinner and more sensitive than that of adults. This makes children more susceptible to sunburn and the long-term effects of UV damage. Protecting their skin early and consistently helps lay the foundation for healthy habits and better skin health later in life.

What sun protection is best?

When spending time outdoors, choose a broad-spectrum sun cream with a minimum of SPF 30. Apply it generously and reapply every two hours – or more often if your child is swimming or sweating. Do not forget commonly missed areas such as the ears, neck, tops of feet and the back of the hands.

Wearing a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and protective clothing can also provide important additional protection, especially when the sun is strongest – typically between 11am and 3pm.

How much sun cream should I apply to my child and how often?
Parents often ask how much sun cream to use and how frequently it should be reapplied. A helpful guide is to apply at least one teaspoon per limb, one for the front, one for the back, and one for the face, neck and ears. Reapplication should take place every two hours, and more frequently if your child is swimming or sweating.

What about children with eczema or sensitive skin?

For children with eczema or sensitive skin, look for mineral-based sun creams containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, which are less likely to cause irritation. Always check expiry dates – most sun creams remain effective for 12 months after opening.

If you have any concerns about sun protection or your child’s skin health, please do get in touch with the Childhealthy team. We are here to support you and your family with practical, evidence-based advice.

Disclaimer: This article is intended for informational purposes only and should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice. Please consult your paediatrician or GP with any concerns about your child’s health.