Top 10 sunscreen questions answered

Choosing the right sunscreen can feel confusing. Parents often have questions about SPF, sunscreen for babies and kids, protection on cloudy days, how often to reapply and more. Here’s what to know to keep you and your family safe from the sun’s damaging ultraviolet (UV) rays year-round.

What does SPF mean and is a higher SPF number better?

SPF is short for sun protection factor. It indicates the amount of protection the product gives from the sun’s damaging UV rays.

For example, sunscreen with SPF15 protects against 93 percent of UV rays, while an SPF30 protects against 97 percent of UV rays. Most experts believe SPF 30 is all you’ll need, provided you put on enough.

What type of sunscreen is best for babies and children?

• Babies younger than six months: Try and keep them out of the sun. Their skin is too sensitive for sunscreen and has very little melanin, making them more susceptible to the sun’s UV rays. If you can't avoid the sun, use a small amount of sunscreen on your baby's face and other exposed skin.
• Ages six to 12 months: Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 15 or higher.
• Children one year and older: While you don't have to use sunscreen made for children, it could be better for sensitive skin. Also, most companies make tear-free formulas that won't sting eyes. If using a spray, mist it into your hands then apply to your baby’s face. Water-resistant, spray-on sunscreens are a good choice for toddlers who won't sit still for lotions, and who enjoy playing in the water.

Are mineral or chemical sunscreens better for kids, people with fair or sensitive skin?

Mineral sunscreen benefits

Both mineral and chemical sunscreens work well. Mineral sunscreen is often the best sunscreen for kids and for people with fair or sensitive skin. Mineral sunscreen with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide is less likely to sting eyes or cause skin irritation, and many formulas are made for babies or sensitive skin.

Chemical sunscreen benefits

Chemical sunscreens have been used safely for years. In June 2026, the U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA) approved bemotrizinol, a chemical that has been available in sunscreens sold in Europe and many other countries for decades. People like it because it’s lightweight, yet effective. This is significant because it’s the first addition of approved active ingredients in the U.S. in 20 years. Look for it to be available in some U.S. sunscreens later this year.

Do you need to wear sunscreen on cloudy days?

You should apply sunscreen even on cloudy days. Forty percent of the sun's UV rays can pass through clouds, which may explain why people often get sunburned on cloudy days if they spend a long time outdoors without adequate UV protection. It’s recommended that you wear sunscreen year-round on your face, neck and back of hands.

Can clothes with UPF protection replace sunscreen?

Clothing with an ultraviolet protection factor (UPF) listing on the label offers extra security from the sun. UPF indicates what fraction of the sun's UV rays can penetrate the fabric. A shirt with a UPF of 50 allows 1/50th of the sun's UV radiation to reach the skin. The Skin Cancer Foundation recommends clothing with a UPF of 30 or higher and still wearing sunscreen for added protection.

Do people with dark complexions need sunscreen?

Yes, people with dark complexions should still apply sunscreen. Although people with more skin pigmentation tend to have a lower skin cancer risk, it doesn't mean they're immune to it. Even if you have a dark complexion, you could have genes that make you more susceptible to skin cancer.

Learn more about the types of skin cancer, melanoma and non-melanoma, and the care and services offered by Allina Health.

Can you use expired sunscreen or sunscreen from last year?

Sunscreens are designed to remain at original strength for up to three years. This means you can use leftover sunscreen from one summer to the next. If a sunscreen includes an expiration date, discard it when past its expiration date. Or, if you buy sunscreen that doesn't have an expiration date, write the purchase date on the bottle.

Discard sunscreen if it’s been exposed to high temperatures, or has changed color or consistency.

Where should you apply sunscreen and how often should you reapply?

Where to apply sunscreen

Apply sunscreen anywhere your skin is exposed to sunlight. Ears, back of hands and back of neck are commonly missed. The American Academy of Dermatology also recommends wearing a lip balm with an SPF 30 or higher.

How often should you reapply sunscreen?

Most of us don't use enough sunscreen. The trick is to reapply. It is best to apply 15-20 minutes before going outside and reapply every two hours. If you miss a spot when applying sunscreen, these tips explain how to heal a sunburn.

Other ways to protect your skin from the sun

Wearing a hat is another good way to avoid sunburn on your scalp and doubles as face protection. Start kids early wearing hats and sunglasses outside for added protection, so they become familiar with this routine.

Is there a way to get a “healthy” tan?

There is no such thing as a “healthy” tan. Tanning even to prevent sunburn – whether in a tanning bed or naturally – causes damage to your skin and increases your skin cancer risk. If you want the look of a suntan, a better alternative is a spray tan or a self-tanning lotion.

What’s the difference between sunscreen and sunblock?

Sunblock blocks UV rays while sunscreen uses chemicals to absorb UV rays before your skin does. The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) doesn’t recommend one over another. Just make sure you choose one that offers “broad spectrum" protection for both UVA and UVB exposure.

Takeaway

The best sunscreen for kids and adults is one you’ll use consistently. Choose a broad-spectrum SPF 30 sunscreen, apply it before outdoor time and reapply every two hours. Pair sunscreen with hats, sunglasses and protective clothing and you’ll get the best sun protection results.