Think sunscreen is only for summer? Think again. Mayo Clinic dermatologist Dr. Dawn Marie Davis is reminding parents that UV exposure happens year-round — rain, clouds, or snow — and that daily sunscreen use should be as routine as brushing teeth for kids and teens. UV rays reflect off snow, sand, and concrete, and peak exposure hits hardest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., no matter the season.

When it comes to picking the right product, Dr. Davis recommends physical blockers — zinc oxide and titanium dioxide — for children with sensitive skin or allergies, as they're hypoallergenic and less likely to cause irritation. For active kids, UV-protective clothing can do a lot of the heavy lifting, leaving only the face, neck, and hands needing sunscreen. And don't forget the lips — lip balm with SPF is a must, since lips are a common site for skin cancer.

Key Takeaways:

• Reapply sunscreen every 2 hours, or immediately after sweating or getting wet
• Check expiration dates — degraded sunscreen loses effectiveness and its preservatives break down over time
• Store sunscreen at room temperature; extreme heat or cold (like a hot car) can deactivate active ingredients
• Some school districts require a doctor's note for kids to apply sunscreen on school grounds — check your local policy

Why it matters: Cumulative UV exposure in childhood significantly raises lifetime skin cancer risk. Building sun-safe habits early — and making them practical — can have lasting protective benefits for kids' long-term health.