Is Sunscreen Safe For Babies?

Summer is just around the corner, and you’re at the store staring at all the varieties of sunscreens that are available for your baby.  Which do you choose?  I will inform you why it is important to use sunscreen for your child, and what to look for.

Babies skin is more receptive to skin damage from the sun, because the skin is thinner and has a lower melanin concentration than adult’s skin. If your child has a many serious sunburns, it may increase your child’s risk of having skin cancer later in their life. Sunscreen can be applied to babies six months and older. Avoid exposing your six month and older baby to the sun during the peak hours of 10 am and 2 pm. Dress your baby in protective clothing, use a hat with a brim, and sunglasses.  Babies that are six months and younger should use other forms of sun protection. Keep your baby out of direct sunlight to protect from sun exposure. Use protective clothing such as sunglasses and a hat with a brim. Your baby should keep out of direct sunlight and placed in a shaded area.

 Sunscreen that comes in a cream or a spray form are the best. Avoid using products that have sunscreen and insect repellent deed, because insect repellent doesn’t technically need to be applied. When you choose sunscreen find one with a broad spectrum of SPF at least 15. The American Academy of dermatology recommends using a broad spectrum sunscreen SPF of 30 or more. When applying use generous amounts and reapply every two hours if they are perspiring and/or in the water for a long periods of time. 

Sun Safety ABC's

1.Shade and shelter:

Shaded tree, awnings gazebos, or a sun umbrella, Another form of protection on the baby carriage or stroller that provides a variety of degrees of shade

2. Sun safe togs 

Dressing the baby in the sun protective clothing: such as lightweight and  breathable long sleeve gowns, one pieces or long sleeve shirt, long pants and bright colors. 

This offers excellent protection to protect the body. Placing sunglasses and broad brimmed hat (4 inches around) or sun bonnets will help block the sun as well from their neck area.

3. Road safety 

Highly recommended for long travels is to put your baby in the middle of the backseat. This will protect the baby from UVA rays and ultraviolet B rays from the windows. Keep the baby hydrated and cool as possible while traveling on the road. Babies are susceptible to heat exhaustion, because they are limited to regulate their body temperature.

Sunscreens that is safe for your baby:

Mustela High Protection Sun Lotion

Sunbow Sunscreen