How to protect your child's skin in summer?

Summer is approaching fast, and with it, those long sunny days our little ones absolutely love! But as parents, we know that child skin protection summer must be our top priority. At Deux par Deux, we've been supporting families for years, and we've gathered all the essential tips so your children can enjoy the sun safely.

Why is children's skin more fragile?

Our little treasures' skin is about three times thinner than adults'. This characteristic makes it extremely vulnerable to the sun's UV rays. Unlike us, children don't yet develop enough melanin - that natural pigment that protects us from burns. The result? A sunburn can occur in less than 15 minutes of direct exposure!

This skin fragility reminds us of the importance of choosing our children's clothes carefully, just like we do when we dress our child for springtime. Each season requires special attention to their delicate skin's specific needs.

UV-protective clothing: your best ally

The protective power of technical fabrics

Did you know that a simple wet white t-shirt only blocks 20% of UV rays? That's why we strongly recommend clothing specially designed for sun protection. These technical fabrics offer a UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) rating that can reach 50+, blocking more than 98% of harmful rays.

At Deux par Deux, our swim collections integrate this technology into colorful and playful pieces that your children will love wearing. Think long-sleeved rashguards, anti-UV leggings, and hats with neck protection - essentials that transform protection into pleasure!

Choosing wisely according to activity

For beach days, prioritize covering ensembles that dry quickly. Park outings rather require breathable clothes that allow great freedom of movement. And let's not forget feet! Closed shoes protect from burning sand and sunburns on the top of the foot - an often forgotten but very sensitive area.

Sunscreen: parent's user manual

Application: the « two fingers » rule

For effective protection, apply the equivalent of two fingers of cream on each body area. This may seem like a lot, but it's the quantity needed to reach the protection index announced on the tube. Reapply every two hours, and systematically after each swim, even with « waterproof » cream.

Choosing the right SPF

According to dermatology.ca, a minimum SPF 30 is recommended for children. But careful: the SPF isn't everything! A poorly applied SPF 50 cream will be less effective than a generously spread SPF 30. Our team's trick? Involve your children in the ritual! Let them help you apply the cream - it becomes a bonding moment rather than a chore.

Creating shade wherever you go

The art of timing

Avoid outings between 11am and 4pm, when UV rays are most intense. If you absolutely must go out, seek natural shade from trees or create your own with an umbrella or pop-up tent. These accessories have become our essential companions during family picnics!

Hydration: the vital reflex

A child playing in the sun can lose up to a liter of water per hour! Offer them fresh water every 15-20 minutes, even if they're not thirsty. Overly sugary drinks should be avoided as they can increase thirst sensation. Our trick? Colorful water bottles with hourly markers to gamify hydration!

Adapting summer wardrobe

Just like we adapt spring clothes for children to temperature changes, summer requires special consideration for materials and colors.

Winning colors and materials

Dark colors absorb more UV but also retain more heat. Light colors reflect light but let more rays through. The ideal? Medium colors like navy blue, red, or green, in tightly woven fabrics. Linen and organic cotton remain excellent choices for breathability.

Essential accessories

A wide-brimmed hat protects face, ears, and neck - particularly sensitive areas. Sunglasses adapted for children (with CE standard) protect their fragile eyes. A nice hat to protect the hat and the face (see also girl hats). And let's not forget socks in closed shoes to avoid blisters on heated skin!

Special vigilance for the little ones

Babies under one year should never be directly exposed to the sun. Their skin is still too immature to handle UV rays. For 1-3 year-olds, surveillance must be constant as they don't always feel the burning sensation in time.

Our team's advice: create a « solar survival kit » with cream, hat, sunglasses, and spare t-shirt in a colorful bag your child will recognize. This involves them in their own protection!

What to do in case of sunburn?

Despite all our precautions, sunburn can occur. Immediately cool the area with lukewarm water (not cold!), apply pure aloe vera, and consult quickly if blisters appear. Internal hydration becomes even more crucial: double water intake!

Building healthy sun habits

Teaching children about sun safety shouldn't feel like a lecture. Make it fun by explaining how their « super skin armor » (clothing) and « magic potion » (sunscreen) work together to keep them safe. Create games around finding shade, staying hydrated, and checking the time for safe sun exposure.

Remember that consistency is key. Children learn best through routine, so make sun protection a natural part of getting ready to go outside, just like putting on shoes or brushing teeth.

Summer adventures without worry

The goal isn't to keep children indoors but to help them enjoy summer safely. With proper protection, they can build sandcastles, splash in pools, explore nature trails, and create those precious childhood memories that last a lifetime.

When children understand that sun protection helps them play longer and feel better, they become willing participants rather than reluctant subjects. This partnership approach makes summer safety second nature for the whole family.

Protecting our children's skin in summer means giving them the freedom to fully enjoy this magical season. With the right reflexes, adapted clothing, and a little organization, summer becomes synonymous with unforgettable family memories, under the sign of safety and shared happiness!