You’ve done everything right. You’ve picked out a mineral sunscreen with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide and checked that it’s broad-spectrum, water-resistant, and free from harsh chemicals. Great work! However, what you have to remember is that even the best toddler sunscreen won’t work properly if you’re not using enough of it. 

Many parents apply too little sunscreen to their kids (often because they’re wriggling or complaining) and it can reduce the SPF protection they’re getting by 50% or more! Since mineral sunscreens sit on top of the skin rather than absorbing into it, thin or uneven application leaves unprotected areas where UV rays can get through.

Less Toddler Sunscreen = Less Protection

If you didn’t know already, SPF ratings are based on applying a specific amount: 2 mg of sunscreen per square centimeter of skin. Most people, including parents, tend to use only around 25-50% of the proper amount. So, what happens when you don’t apply enough?

  • Using only half the recommended amount of SPF 50 sunscreen could leave your toddler with as little as SPF 25-30 instead.
  • If you were to only use a quarter of the recommended amount, it can reduce your SPF 50 to as low as SPF 10-15.

Obviously, this means your toddler could be getting far less protection than you think, even if you’re using a high-SPF product. So, perhaps it’s time to review how you’re applying it to your children to ensure you’re getting enough on. Here are a few tips on doing just that:

Use Enough (It’s More Than You Think!)

Because mineral sunscreen works by sitting on the skin’s surface, applying too little leaves gaps where UV rays can reach. Here’s a general guide for how much to use:

  • On the face & neck: Use about a teaspoon (roughly the size of a large blueberry).
  • Whole body: About two tablespoons (a small shot glass) is enough.
  • Hands & feet: A pea-sized amount per hand and foot.

If you’re barely using any or it spreads too easily with little effort, you probably need to apply more.

Apply in Small Sections for Even Coverage

Mineral sunscreens can be thicker and harder to spread than many chemical lotions, so instead of trying to cover a large area at once, apply in small sections and gently work it onto the skin. Warming it between your hands first can also make application easier.

Coverage Matters More Than Visibility

With mineral sunscreen for toddlers, it’s much less about whether you can see it and far more about making sure every spot is covered. Some formulas go on white and fade as they dry, while others are sheer from the start. The key is to apply enough and not rub so hard that you remove it while spreading.

It’s Vital to Apply Enough Toddler Sunscreen

The bottom line is if you’re using too little sunscreen, your toddler is not going to get the SPF protection they need to keep their delicate skin safe in the sun. There’s literally no value in skimping on a mineral sunscreen, so don’t be shy and apply the amount we covered earlier.

Apply it generously, spread it properly without over-rubbing, and reapply often, because a little extra effort now means a lot less sun damage later.