Sunscreen for Babies

When it comes to protecting your child from the sun, you probably feel like there are more questions than answers. Which sunscreen is safest for babies? Are aerosol sprays safe on tiny skin? What SPF should I be using and when should my child start wearing it? Even if you feel like a new parent, chances are, you’re already an old hand at staying cool in the summer heat. But keeping your baby safe and comfortable in hot weather feels like another challenge entirely. Luckily, with a little research and planning, you can find some common ground between what’s good for your baby and what’s easy for you. Read on for our advice on the best sunscreen for babies and everything else you need to know about protecting them from the sun this summer.

What is the best sunscreen for babies?

The best sunscreen for babies is one that is effective and safe for your child’s unique needs. All sunscreens help prevent sunburn and lower the risk of skin cancer, but not all are created equal. The FDA recommends using a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30, but even at that level of protection, some brands are better than others. SPF refers to the level of protection against UVB rays, which cause sunburn and contribute to the development of skin cancer. When shopping for a sunscreen for your baby, look for one with an SPF of at least 30. You can also look for one that’s labeled “broad spectrum,” which means that it protects against both UVB and UVA rays.

Which SPF is best for babies?

It’s tempting to pick a sunscreen with a really high SPF, but it’s important to use a sunscreen with a lower SPF on babies under 6 months. In fact, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends that parents avoid sunscreens with an SPF above 50 on children under age 2. And you should use a sunscreen with a lower SPF on children 6 months and older. So while an SPF of 30 is great for babies, an SPF of 15 is also a good choice.

Aerosol vs. non-aerosol sunscreen

At first glance, it may seem that aerosol sprays are more convenient than a “goop” you have to rub into your baby’s skin. But the AAP recommends that parents avoid using aerosol sunscreens on their babies. A sunscreen’s effectiveness is determined by the level of UVB and UVA protection it offers. No matter what consistency it comes in, a sunscreen needs to be applied at a specific thickness in order to be effective. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recommends that you apply about 1 ounce of sunscreen per every square foot of your baby’s skin. A single squirt from an aerosol sunscreen just doesn’t offer the same coverage as a non-aerosol product. Plus, aerosol sunscreens are more likely to be inhaled or ingested by your baby.

Baby-friendly sunscreen ingredients

When you’re shopping for sunscreen for your baby, look for a product with an SPF of at least 30 that is free of oxybenzone, parabens, retinyl palmitate, vitamin A, and other potentially harmful ingredients. Parents should also avoid sunscreens that contain PABA (para-aminobenzoic acid) since it may cause allergic reactions. Also, be sure to check the expiration date on the bottle. The best sunscreen for babies lasts for up to two years, but many people forget to check the expiration date.

When should my baby start wearing sunscreen?

The best sunscreen for babies is one that’s used year-round. While sunscreen can’t replace a good hat, sunglasses, and long-sleeved clothing, it does offer an extra layer of protection for your baby’s delicate skin. And it’s important to start protecting your baby’s skin from the sun early. And when it comes to timing, there’s no “one size fits all” recommendation. Babies are uniquely susceptible to the sun’s harmful effects because their skin is thinner, their bodies aren’t fully developed, and their blood vessels are more sensitive to UV light. Even though it’s tempting to wait until spring to start protecting your baby from the sun, it’s best to start early. Some experts suggest that you start as soon as your baby is born and has fully healed from his/her circumcision.

How often should I apply sunscreen to my baby?

The best sunscreen for babies is one that you remember to apply every day. The AAP recommends that you apply sunscreen to your baby’s skin at least 15 minutes before going outdoors. But remember, the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) also recommends that you re-apply sunscreen every two hours. Re-applying sunscreen is especially important if you’re outside for a long period of time or if you’re sweating or swimming. Re-applying sunscreen will help ensure that you maintain the full SPF protection and that you don’t run the risk of overheating. So don’t forget to apply sunscreen to your baby’s ears, hands, and other exposed areas.

Tips for keeping your baby cool and protected from the sun

If you’re taking your baby out in the sun, there are a few things you can do to keep them cool and protected. Find shade and stay out of the sun between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. during the summer. Choose a shaded outdoor activity like hiking, biking, or swimming in a lake or river. Stay hydrated and avoid caffeinated beverages. Cover your baby’s skin with lightweight clothing. Use a sunscreen-friendly cover or stay in the shade while you’re waiting for your child’s skin to tan.

Conclusion

The best sunscreen for babies is one that is effective and safe for your child’s unique needs. All sunscreens protect against sunburn and lower the risk of skin cancer, but not all are created equal. It’s important to use a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30, and you should avoid sunscreens with an SPF above 50 on children under 2 years old. You should also look for a sunscreen that is free of oxybenzone, parabens, retinyl palmitate, vitamin A, and other potentially harmful ingredients. Most importantly, remember to apply sunscreen every day, every time your baby goes outside.