As teenagers, many of us didn’t think twice about getting in a tanning booth to bronze up before a vacation or school dance. As parents, we’re way more cautious about our babies’ skin. On sunny days, protecting them from harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays is one of the main priorities on most new moms’ minds. It’s counterintuitive, then, to think that spreading sunscreen all over babies might not be the way to go. Here’s what the experts say about keeping infant skin safe from both the sun and from the chemicals in sunscreen.
Sunscreen for babies under 6 months old
General sun safety
Twenty20
Whether your baby is under 6 months or over, it’s essential to take basic sun precautions while they’re outside. Even if your baby is wearing sunscreen, the American Academy of Pediatrics still recommends keeping them out of the sun as much as possible. This means that umbrellas, trees, and anything else that can provide some shade are your friends. Hats with wide brims are also great for shade, as they protect the especially sensitive skin on your baby’s face, ears, and the back of their neck. Sunglasses are also a good idea.
Anne Young, mom to a 4-year-old boy and a 10-week-old girl, has taken this advice to heart: “I put a sun hat on my baby, and I dress her in long sleeves and long pants. I usually have a muslin blanket handy to cover her as well. I do worry a little about overheating, so I choose clothes that are lightweight cotton.”
If for any reason your little one gets a sunburn that causes blisters, pain, or a fever, get in touch with your pediatrician.
