INFANT SUN PROTECTION: HOW TO KEEP YOUR BABY SAFE

 To keep your child safe outdoors, dermatologists recommend the following tips:

1. Keep your baby in the shade. Shade is the best way to shield your baby from the sun, especially if he or she is younger than six months old. Keep your baby in the shade as much as possible, and if you can't find shade, create your own using an umbrella, canopy or the hood of a stroller.
2. Dress your baby in sun-protective clothing, such as a lightweight, long-sleeved shirt and pants. In addition, make sure your baby always wears a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses with UV protection.
3. Minimize sunscreen use on children younger than six months old. However, if shade and adequate clothing are not available, parents and caretakers may apply a minimal amount of broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 to their children's skin. Sunscreens containing titanium dioxide or zinc oxide are less likely to irritate a baby's sensitive skin. Remember to reapply your child's sunscreen every two hours or immediately after swimming or sweating, as there is no such thing as "waterproof" sunscreen.
4. Stay safe on hot days. In addition to sun protection, stay safe on hot days by making sure your baby does not get overheated and drinks plenty of fluids. If your baby is fussy, crying excessively or has redness on any exposed skin, take him or her indoors immediately.

Sun protection is important at every stage of life, including infancy. Always protect yourself and your family from the sun, and see a board-certified dermatologist if you have any questions about how to take care of your baby's skin.

Information found online at:

https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/skin-cancer/prevent/sun-babies