The sun's rays can damage any skin, but baby skin is more vulnerable, so precautions are crucial. Healthy sun habits during the early years may reduce the risk skin cancer and premature aging later in life.
Sun Protection for Infants
Babies under 6 months should be kept out of the sun.
Cover exposed skin with lightweight, loose-fitting, long-sleeved clothing.
Keep the baby in the shade, under an umbrella or tree.
Use a stroller or baby carrier with a canopy.
Sun Protection for Older Babies and Toddlers
Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher.
Apply sunscreen to all exposed skin, including the face, ears, and back of the neck.
Reapply sunscreen every two hours, or more often if the child is swimming or sweating.
Avoid using sunscreens with oxybenzone or octinoxate. These chemicals have been linked to hormone disruption and other health problems.
Additional Tips
Avoid peak sun hours, between 10:00 am and 4:00 pm.
Make a habit of checking the UV index before going outdoors. On days when the UV index is high, stay in the shade or take extra precautions.
If your child has sensitive skin, test the sunscreen on a small patch of skin before applying it to the entire body.
