Why is kids' sunscreen so greasy, and does it ever dry down?

A post on r/EuroSkincare came from someone who bought La Roche-Posay's Anthelios UVMune 400 Pediatrics, often recommended in Europe as a body sunscreen, and was baffled. Even after 30 minutes in front of a fan it hadn't dried at all and sat like an oily film, and an arm brushing against dark linen trousers left stains that wouldn't wash out. Along with a half-joking "are kids just expected to suffer?", they asked for alternatives with similar UVA protection that dry down better, and for tips on keeping body sunscreen off clothes, bags and car seats.

The replies split like this:

• The most common answer: kids' formulas are built to survive water and friction, so the tacky film is the design. Several said the greasier it is, the more water-resistant and harder to rub off.

• Multiple people said the tube is thicker (it contains shea butter) and the spray version in the same line feels much lighter, with the reminder to spray into your palm and apply enough.

• Some with dry skin like it, and a few pat on a little powder afterwards to cut the shine, noting the powder itself gives no sun protection.

• Others argued the real fix at the beach is a UPF rash guard or swimsuit that shrinks the area you need to cover.

• On the other side, one person said they'd rather reapply a lighter product more often than have a child coated in sand and dust.

Desk note: The US FDA does not recommend sunscreen for babies under six months and advises keeping them out of the sun between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. For older kids, covering up with clothes and hats first and then choosing a texture that suits the activity is the practical route. For which product suits a child's skin, a paediatrician is the safest person to ask.

What finally stuck in your house for kids' sunscreen: lotion, stick or spray?

Original thread: r/EuroSkincare — greasy kids' sunscreen · Reference: FDA — Sunscreen: How to Help Protect Your Skin

#kidssunscreen #sunscreen #beachday #familysummer