Applying sunscreen to children has become a reflex for many families. But when it comes to their own protection, parents often let their guard down. This is what a study carried out by Mustela and the Discurv institute among 1,000 French families in April 2026 highlights.
Children first, even if it means forgetting yourself
The protection of the youngest is today an absolute priority for parents. According to the study, 61% of parents say they put their children’s sun protection before their own.
Upon arrival in the sun, 57% first apply cream to their children. And when the tube is almost empty, more than one in two parents (52%) prefer to reserve the product for children, even if that means exposing themselves without any protection.
This vigilance is particularly strong among parents of infants. 74% of parents of children under the age of one apply protection upon arrival in the sun, proof of significant awareness of the risks associated with early exposure.
A preconceived idea that pushes adults to take fewer precautions
Why are parents less careful about themselves? The study highlights a belief that is still very widespread: 33% of parents think that their skin is more resistant to the sun than that of their children.
This idea is even more present among those under 25, 42% of whom share this conviction.
This perception directly influences behavior. While 72% of children benefit from SPF 50+ protection, only 57% of parents use the same level of protection for themselves.
Regional differences are also marked. The inhabitants of Normandy appear to be the most rigorous, with 71% of parents using SPF 50+ for themselves and 82% for their children. Conversely, in New Aquitaine, only 46% of parents say they use SPF 50+, and 14% do not protect themselves at all.
Reapply the cream: the reflex that adults still lack
Sun protection does not only depend on the choice of index. It also relies on the regularity of the application.
However, here again, parents are much more diligent with their children. 56% reapply the cream every two hours on their children, compared to only 35% for themselves.
Result: the consequences are quickly seen. During their last vacation, 24% of parents got sunburned, compared to only 10% of children.
The study also identifies several obstacles to regular application of sunscreen. Among the most cited:
- 22% find the texture too greasy or sticky;
- 14% say they forget or lack time;
- 13% mention the difficulties linked to the application on reluctant children.
As children get older, alertness decreases
While infants benefit from maximum attention, the situation changes with age.
The study shows that during adolescence, good habits tend to crumble. Among families with children aged 13 to 15, only 56% of parents continue to reapply cream every two hours.
An observation which reminds us that sun protection concerns the whole family, regardless of age. Because if parents today are the champions of sunscreen for their children, many of them still forget that their own skin deserves the same attention.