Babies, Skin & Sun

We all know that babies have delicate skin. What most parents underestimate, is just how vulnerable babies are to the sun's harmful rays. Babies are at increased risk for three reasons.

  • First, they are not born with skin protection, so they burn more easily.
  • Second, their outermost layer of skin is thinner than adult skin.
  • Third, relative to their body mass, babies have more skin - making a sun burn a more serious injury.

According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, just one blistering sunburn in childhood can double your child's lifetime chances of developing serious forms of skin cancer. Remember that your baby can't tell you that she's hot or when her skin is burning; and she can't move herself out of the sun. So, it's imperative that before we step outside, we give forethought to protecting baby's sun.

The best way to protect your baby's skin is to keep her out of the sun. For years, the American Academy of Pediatrics did not approve the use of sunscreen for children under the age of six months. That recommendation was not because sunscreen can't be used on the youngest children. Rather, the association wanted to avoid encouraging parents to take their children into the sun. Without a doubt, the best way to protect baby is to keep her out of the sun altogether.

When you have to be in the sun with baby, the best barrier between baby and the sun's rays is a physical one. Clothing, umbrellas or shade are the best way to shield baby from those damaging rays. If these aren't consistently possible, select a physical sunblock rather than a chemical formulation that blocks both UVA and UVB. Look for sunblocks with zinc oxide and titanium dioxide and with an SPF of 15 or higher. Though these products are thick and give the skin a whitish cast, they are the most effective types of sunscreen. Apply 15-30 minutes before going outside and reapply liberally and often - taking care to avoid baby's eyes and making sure there is none on the inside of his hands (he may rub his eyes). Check with your pediatrician before using chemical sun-block agents.

Sun Protection Myths

Though most parents don't know it, their baby can get sunburned any time of year, even on a cloudy day. Up to 80% of a run's rays can penetrate clouds, mist and fog. It's important to take sun protection seriously, even on days when the sun doesn't appear to be at full strength. Direct sunlight isn't the only damaging variety. Reflected light counts too. Up to 40% of the sun's harmful UV rays bounce off sand, snow, water or even asphalt.

Practical Tips for Minimizing the Sun's Effects on Baby

  • Choose a stroller with adequate shade or hood.
  • Take baby on strolls, or for outside playtime, at times when the sun's rays are a touch weaker - ideally before 11am or after 4pm.
  • Make sure that your baby wears a sun hat or a hat with a wide brim whenever he's outside.
  • When spending time outside with baby, make sure he's placed in the shade. If natural shade isn't available, bring along an umbrella or shade tent.
  • Choose loose-fitting, tightly woven clothing, ideally long pants and long sleeved shirts, on sunny days.
  • Apply sunblock before taking baby to school or daycare and make sure his teachers reapply.