☀️⛸️ Sun-Safe Skaters: Making Sunscreen a Daily Habit
☀️ Protect their skin—and their skating comfort—this summer
As a coach, parent, and advocate for young athletes, I know summers bring sunshine, outdoor practice, and the need to manage UV exposure. Parents often ask: “How can I make sunscreen a habit?” Especially when skaters start their day with early ice and finish it with beach trips or park play.
Since skaters spend most of the year in a classroom or on the ice, they may not be in a summer outdoors mindset. That’s why being intentional about sun safety is key.
⛸️ Are You Skating Early, Then Heading Outside?
Spending the morning on ice is great—but don’t forget the sun hits its peak intensity between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., when UV rays are strongest. That’s when reapplying sunscreen midday becomes essential to prevent burns.
🧴 Layer Your Protection
Start with a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ in the morning. When heading out mid-day, layer: apply a thin chemical base, then top with a mineral (zinc-oxide) layer.
“A layered sunscreen approach gives better protection—and is smart for active kids.” —Dr. Samireh Said, dermatologist
🌿 Mineral vs. Chemical Sunscreen
Both types are safe, but for sensitive skin or active kids, mineral sunscreens provide a visible protective layer.
“Mineral sunscreens offer the most protection because they’re literally creating a physical separation between you and the sun.” —Skincare experts
❌ Spray Sunscreens: Why We Recommend Caution
Spray sunscreen might seem like a quick fix, but it often leads to poor protection and potential health risks:
Inconsistent coverage & reduced effectiveness
Sprays are hard to apply evenly, especially in windy outdoor settings, leading to missed spots.
People often underapply and don’t rub in spray sunscreens.
Inhalation risk
Sprays release airborne particles that can be inhaled—especially dangerous for young lungs.
Toxic & flammable ingredients
Some contain alcohols and propellants that are irritating or flammable.
“While convenient, spray sunscreens may not provide adequate or consistent sun protection if not applied properly—and can increase the risk of skin damage.” —Dr. Samireh Said, pediatric dermatologist
Bottom line: If you must use spray, spray into your hands first, apply directly to skin, and rub it in completely.
👶 Sensitive Skin? No Problem!
Choose sunscreens labeled for sensitive skin or toddlers to avoid irritation. Lotions and sticks are gentler and more effective for young skaters.
🧂 Use the “Teaspoon Rule” for Coverage
A good dosing guide:
1 tsp for face & neck
1 tsp for front + back of torso
1 tsp per arm
2 tsp per leg
Don’t forget ears, nose, back of neck, hands, and feet. Lift swimsuit straps and cover hidden areas.
💋 Protect Lips Too
Use an SPF 30 lip balm—sunburned lips hurt and can dry out fast!
↺ Reapply Often
Every 2 hours during peak sun
After swimming or sweating
Even on cloudy days
Check expiration dates to ensure effectiveness.
🎮 Gear Up for Shade & Protection
Encourage shade play mid-day.
Teach the 5 S’s (Twinkl):
Slip on protective clothing
Slop on sunscreen
Slap on a hat
Seek shade
Slide on sunglasses
🛅 Lead by Example
Make sunscreen part of the routine (Project Play Therapy)
Use songs, charts, or stickers to make it fun
Let them help apply or choose their SPF stick
🩸 Why It Matters for Skaters
Sunburn = painful feet in tight skates
Burns on ankles, knees, or face can distract from performance. Staying burn-free = a more focused, comfortable, and confident skater.
“Layering a mineral sunscreen over a chemical base boosts protection during extended outdoor wear.” —Dr. Samireh Said
“Reapplication and choosing zinc-based sunscreen helps avoid irritation from sweat and friction.” —Dr. Samireh Said
💌 Clean Sunscreens: Safer for Skin and the Environment
Clean sunscreens use mineral-based actives (zinc oxide, titanium dioxide) and avoid potentially harmful ingredients like oxybenzone, octinoxate, parabens, and synthetic fragrances.
Top Clean Sunscreens:
Thrive Reef Safe SPF 50
Badger Mineral SPF 30
Babo Botanicals Stick SPF 50
ATTITUDE Mineral SPF 30
Blue Lizard SPF 30+
Cooola Organic SPF 50
Thinkbaby Clear Zinc SPF 30
Supergoop! Unseen SPF 40
Tips:
Look for zinc/titanium dioxide as actives
Choose EWG Verified or NSF labels
Avoid oxybenzone, octinoxate, homosalate, and parabens
Consider hydrating formulas for dry skin
Test on a small patch first
🌿 Clean vs. Traditional Sunscreen: Know the Difference
Clean Sunscreens:
Use mineral filters that block UV rays
Gentle on skin, reef-safe, fewer additives
Traditional Sunscreens:
Use chemical filters that absorb UV rays
Often lighter-feeling but may irritate skin
Effectiveness: Both types protect well when applied and reapplied properly. Choose based on your child’s skin needs and lifestyle.
One of my personal favorite brands is EltaMD. Their sunscreens are generally considered to be a "clean" brand by many standards. They are frequently recommended by dermatologists for various skin types, including sensitive and acne-prone skin. Check them out out at eltamd.com
Pro Tip: The best sunscreen is the one you and your child will use every day
✨ Final Coaching Tip
Make sun prep part of your daily skating routine. Keeping skin protected ensures your skater stays comfortable, healthy, and focused all summer long.
⚠️ Disclaimer
This blog is for educational purposes only. Always consult a dermatologist or pediatrician for personalized sun-safety and skincare advice.
