The Ultimate Parent Guide to Sunscreen

“Think sunscreen is just for holidays? Think again. Here’s your easy guide to keeping your kids’ and teens’ skin safe, every day—without the eye rolls.”

Sunscreen Isn’t Optional

On most days getting kids to put on sunscreen can feel like negotiating a peace treaty. There’s usually a bit of eye-rolling (especially from teens), some dodging, and occasionally, a full-body sprint in the opposite direction. But here’s the thing: sunscreen isn’t just a “nice to have”—it’s essential.

From school runs and park playdates to sports practice and family holidays, kids and teens are exposed to the sun way more often than we think. And while they’re busy being awesome outdoors, their skin is soaking up more UV rays than a sun lounger in Goa.

The reality? Early sun exposure = long-term skin damage. And not just the kind you notice now—we’re talking about the kind that sneaks up years later. But don’t worry, you don’t need a PhD in dermatology to protect your child’s skin. Just the right info (and the right sunscreen).

Why Sunscreen Matters More Than You Think

Yes, sunshine is great for Vitamin D and mood-boosting vibes, but too much of a good thing can do some serious damage.

Kids and teens have more sensitive skin, and it takes less UV exposure to cause long-term harm. In fact, just a few bad sunburns during childhood can increase the risk of skin cancer later in life. That might sound scary (and yeah, it is), but here’s the bright side: this is 100% preventable.

And here’s the kicker: it doesn’t even need to be sunny for skin damage to happen. UV rays are out there on cloudy days, rainy days, and even during quick walks to the school gate.

Sunburn isn’t just a temporary ouch—it’s a sign of skin cells being damaged at a deep level. So even if your child doesn’t “burn easily,” their skin still needs protection. Because when it comes to UV exposure, the damage adds up.

What to Look for in a Kid/Teen-Friendly Sunscreen

Not all sunscreens are created equal—some leave your child looking like a chalky ghost, others melt off the second they break a sweat. And some are packed with ingredients you wouldn’t want anywhere near your child’s skin.

Here’s what actually matters:

SPF 30 or higher

This is the golden rule. SPF 30 blocks about 97% of UVB rays, which is ideal for everyday use. Anything lower? You're basically using a glorified moisturiser.

Broad-spectrum protection

Look for a sunscreen that protects against both UVA and UVB rays. UVB burns, UVA ages—and both can cause damage.

Mineral over chemical

Mineral sunscreens (like Tikitoro’s Mineral Sunscreen for Kids & Teens) use natural ingredients like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide to physically block UV rays. They’re less likely to irritate sensitive skin, and they start working as soon as they’re applied.

Chemical sunscreens, on the other hand, need time to absorb and can cause irritation or stinging, especially around the eyes.

Water-resistant

If water is involved (which with kids is always), your sunscreen needs to stay put. Tikitoro’s formulas are water- and sweat-resistant, so they can keep up with cannonballs and cricket matches.

No nasties

Always check the label. Look for sunscreens that are free from parabens, synthetic fragrances, sulphates, and mystery chemicals. Tikitoro’s formulas are kid-safe, dermatologist-tested, and teen-approved.

Applying Sunscreen Like a Pro

Even the best sunscreen won’t do much if it’s applied like an afterthought. Here’s how to actually make it work:

Use enough

Most people under-apply sunscreen. Aim for about a teaspoon for the face and neck, and a shot-glass amount (about 30ml) for the whole body. More is more.

Apply it early

Sunscreen isn’t a last-minute decision—it needs 15–20 minutes to settle in before your child runs out the door.

Cover the sneaky spots

Ears, neck, back of the knees, tops of feet, hands, and the parting in their hair. These are the most forgotten spots—and the most likely to burn.

Reapply. A lot

Every 2 hours. Or sooner if they’re swimming, sweating, or towel-drying. One-and-done doesn’t cut it.

Teach them to do it too

Make sunscreen part of the morning routine, just like brushing teeth. The earlier it becomes second nature, the better.

Sunscreen Myths That Need to Go

Let’s bust a few persistent myths while we’re here.

“My child tans easily, they don’t burn.”
Tanning is your skin trying to protect itself—aka, damage control in progress. It's still harm, just a different shade.

“Dark skin doesn’t need sunscreen.”
While melanin provides some protection, it doesn’t block UV rays completely. All skin needs SPF. Period.

“It’s cloudy—we’re fine today.”
Not quite. Up to 80% of UV rays can pass through clouds. Overcast skies still require sunscreen.

“We applied it this morning, we’re covered for the day.”
Sunscreen wears off. Reapplication is a must—especially after water or sweat.

Getting Kids & Teens on Board

Here’s where things get fun. Because if sunscreen feels like a punishment, you’re fighting a losing battle.

For little ones:

• Let them choose their own “sun gear” (hat, shades, bottle).

• Make application a game—draw patterns on their arms before rubbing it in.

• Use Tikitoro Kids Mineral Sunscreen—non-greasy, no white cast, and totally toddler-proof.

For teens:

• Appeal to their vibe: “No sunscreen = uneven skin tone and premature wrinkles.” Works every time.

• Tikitoro Teens Mineral Sunscreen is made to feel like skincare—not goopy, sticky or awkward.

• Encourage them to keep a small tube in their school or gym bag. Bonus points if they post about it.

Sunscreen as a Daily Habit

Sunscreen shouldn’t be saved for the beach. It should be as routine as brushing teeth—a small step that makes a big difference.

With the right sunscreen, the right routine, and a little encouragement, kids and teens can build habits that protect their skin now and later. And with Tikitoro’s gentle, skin-loving formulas, there’s zero drama and maximum protection.

Start early, make it easy, keep it fun. Because confident kids? They’re sun-safe kids.

“SPF doesn’t stand for ‘Skip Protection Forever’.”