Author bio: James Hanson

As a man who struggles to stay indoors for any length of time, James knows all about the
importance of protecting your skin from the elements. He enjoys sharing travel tips for
families and solo adventurers, and is usually found on his surfboard catching some waves.

Date: August 1, 2025

Sunny days call for suncream, but getting the right protection involves more than a quick layer wiped onto your nose and shoulders. Many people, even those who use sunscreen regularly, miss key steps that reduce its affectiveness and can lead to sunburn, skin damage, and premature aging. 

This short guide will walk you through how to apply suncream properly and also how to care for your skin after sun exposure, so you can keep yourself and your children protected both while having fun in the sun and afterwards.

Choosing The Right Suncream

A good sunscreen prevents sunburn, but it also helps to protect skin against long-lasting damage. Look for an SPF rating of 30 or higher, and ensure it offers broad-spectrum protection by blocking both UVA and UVB rays. 

If you’re going to be swimming or sweating, you’ll need to make sure the suncream is waterproof. However, some suncreams are toxic to corals and marine life, so if you’re going in the ocean, it's best to use a mineral-based, reef-safe formula.

Mineral-based sunscreen is also great for children or those with sensitive skin – look for ones that use natural, mineral UV blocking agents like oxide and titanium dioxide, which are less likely to irritate the skin.

Whether you choose a spray, lotion, gel, or stick, choose the format your family will be most inclined to use. Children tend to tolerate roll-on lotions well, as they can do it themselves and can be fun to use, whereas sprays are convenient and quicker to apply – though they still need to be rubbed in.

Use More Than You Think

Most people don’t apply nearly enough sunscreen for full protection. Adults need roughly a shot glass full to cover their entire body, and around a teaspoon for the face and neck. It’s easy to overlook areas like the ears, tops of the feet, along the hairline, hands and the underside of the arms, so pay special attention to these spots.

For children, it’s best to apply suncream before leaving the house – getting an excited toddler to hold still at the beach is no fun for anyone. Make it into a game and remember it needs at least 15 minutes to sink in before it’s fully effective. This is especially true with chemical sunscreens, as they need time to form a protective layer on the skin. 

Reapply Suncream Often

Reapplication at regular intervals is just as important as the first coat – even water-resistant formulas lose effectiveness over time. You should reapply suncream every two hours, and again after being in water, heavily sweating, or drying off with a towel. If you’re worried about having too much fun and forgetting, set a reminder alarm on your phone.

Of course, convincing children to willingly apply sunscreen is not always easy. But making it a part of their everyday routine throughout the summer months can help them see it in the same way as brushing their teeth or packing a picnic. Keep it in easy-to-see places so it doesn’t get left behind in the rush to get out the door. 

Layer Your Protection

While suncream is a brilliant invention, it shouldn’t be used as your only form of protection against the sun. UV-protective swimwear is a great option for children at the beach, as it’s breathable, comes in bright, stylish colors that are easy to spot in the water, and it covers more skin than swimming trunks or bikinis. 

You should also invest in a few wide-brimmed hats and sunglasses with UV protection, and seek out a shady spot for the times of day when the sun is at its strongest. If you’re at the beach or somewhere quite open, consider taking a big umbrella or a pop-up tent to give young children a break from the sun and a chance to cool down – the risk of sunburn and sunstroke are highest between 10 a.m and 4 p.m.  

Don’t Skip Aftercare

Though it can be tempting to tuck the kids in then fall into bed yourself after a busy day out and about, good aftercare helps to prevent dryness, peeling, and skin damage. Even if skin doesn’t look red, it still needs a little TLC after hours in the sun. Rinse off chlorine, salt, and sweat with cool water and moisturize within 10-15 minutes of towel drying to soothe and rehydrate the skin. 

A generous application of a good quality after sun lotion helps support children’s thinner, more permeable skin; helping to reduce redness, calm inflammation, and repair the lipid barrier. Look for nourishing botanicals like coconut oil, aloe vera, and shea butter, and avoid anything with fragrances or alcohol in the ingredients list. 

Setting A Good Example

Children follow your example, so if they see you wearing sunscream, a hat, and taking regular breaks in the shade, they’re far more likely to pick up those sun-safe habits too. With a little planning and consistency, sunscreen becomes just another part of a summer’s day, like packing water bottles and the bucket and spade.