In today’s world, children, especially those refereed to as tweens [10-12 age group], do use cosmetics. It’s natural for a child to want to emulate the adults around them. As a parent the best thing is to be informed as to what is safe for them to use. The most important skin care product for children is sunscreen. Young, delicate skin may not show signs of sun damage until later in life, but without adequate skin coverage children are at risk of getting skin cancer, sun burn and pre-mature aging.

Cosmetics refer not only to the obvious, but also to shampoos, deodorants, perfumes, colognes, and powders. It is also important to note that based on the line of products listed as cosmetics that users are not only girls, but boys as well.

Sun Protection

The most important cosmetic need for children is the need for sun protection. Skin covers the body to protect it from the elements, but skin burns. Some tips to follow:

·    Re-apply sunscreen every thirty minutes to an hour, especially if children are swimming

·    Use sunscreen lavishly

·    Sunscreen must have an SPF of 15 or higher

·    Use lots of moisturizers

Cleaning Agents  

Soaps / Bath Gels

Soaps, bubble bath and bath gels for children should not irritate children’s delicate skin so it’s best to use those with natural herbal extracts. Never use adult soap and bath products on children.

Shampoos

Unlike adult shampoo, children’s shampoo should be mild and devoid of dyes and preservatives.

Lotions / Creams

These serve a dual purpose – they moisturize as well as protect the skin. There are many different types of lotions, such as milk lotions and cream lotions. Milk lotions are quickly absorbed into the skin to moisturize, while creams do not absorb as quickly and serves as a protective barrier between the child’s skin and the environment.

Moisturizing products should be used after a bath for best results. Creams can be used all over the child’s body, however, avoid using moisturizing oils all over the body as it will cause the child’s skin to over-heat and may result in heat rash. Why? Oils stop the body from breathing.

When buying cosmetics for children avoid those with synthetic dyes and abrasive material (children do not need body scrubs for instant) that can damage their thin, delicate skin.

Problems: Allergic Reaction

Children, because of the delicate nature of their skin, are most susceptible to suffer allergic reaction to ingredients in cosmetics. Always perform an allergy test on the wrist or under the arm before applying to the entire face or body.

It is also important to keep informed about the ingredients in cosmetics, especially those used by children, such as sunscreen, lotions and nail polish. There are many sites online that can provide guidance.

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