My 10yo absolutely REFUSES to let me put sunscreen on his face. Says it feels "slimy" and "stings his eyes." I've tried spray, lotion, stick, even that new mousse stuff. He just won't do it. I end up just doing his arms and shoulders and hoping for the best, but I'm always worried. Anyone have a sunscreen that doesn't feel gross? Or am I just stuck bribing him with ice cream?
The mousse didn't work?? That's literally what converted my stubborn 9yo because it doesn't feel wet. But honestly at 10 if he's that resistant maybe just enforce a hat + rash guard situation and call it a win
lol same energy as my 10yo. I started using a tinted mineral stick (like colorescience) so he can at least SEE that he put it on. He's more willing when there's visual feedback. Still complains but actually does it
Have you tried the clear sticks? The opaque ones def feel "slimy" but the clear sunscreen sticks feel more like chapstick. Might be the angle he needs
What happens if you just... let him get a light burn once? Not advocating for skin damage but sometimes kids need to experience minor consequences instead of fighting you every beach trip. Honestly asking because this has been our struggle too
this is so frustrating. our dermatologist suggested UV protective clothing (like a rash guard) for my kid's face days when he refuses. not a perfect solution but takes the pressure off the face at least
The stick sunscreen might actually work better for faces since he can control it himself? My kid hated the lotion too but felt less out of control with the stick. Obviously still gotta reapply more but might be worth trying?
My 11yo does the exact same thing. I finally found that applying it to his hands first and having him rub it on while looking up at the sky helped somehow? Also framed it as 'you're in charge of your own sunscreen' which made him more cooperative. Still not perfect but better than the battles we were having.
This might be weird but have you let HIM apply it? My kid went from refusing to letting me help once I let him be in control of the application. Yeah it's splotchy but at least his face gets covered
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sunscreen in the eyes is legitimately horrible so he's not totally wrong to complain. have you tried letting HIM apply it? sometimes the control issue is half the battle
The 'stings his eyes' complaint is legit though. Regular sunscreen CAN drip into your eyes on a sunny day. Have you tried the actual eye-safe sunscreen sticks that are specifically for that? Think Coppertone has one?