A baby’s skin is more prone to burns and irritation than an adult’s skin. This is because it is more delicate and thin. Babies cannot communicate to you when they are too hot or burning. They rely on the adult to help get them out of the sun and dress them properly for the weather and  apply sunscreen.
 

Baby sunburn prevention tips

 
Babies ( 0 – 6 months )

Babies younger than 6 months should be kept out of the sun. Their skin is too sensitive for the sun. The skin has little melanin which is the pigment needed to provide color to the skin, hair and eyes and provide some protection to the sun. Babies at this age are therefore highly susceptible to the damaging effects of the sun’s rays.

• take early morning walks before 10am and after 4 pm. Use a stroller with a sun protection cover
• dress the baby in light weight cotton clothing that covers the arms and legs and a sun hat or bonnet with a wide brim to protect the baby’s face, neck and ears
• sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher may be may be applied to babies younger than 6 months . Apply them to small areas of skin that are not covered by clothing and hat
• use removable mesh window shields to keep direct sunlight from coming in through the windows of your car. You can also invest in UV window film, which can screen almost 100 percent of ultraviolet radiation without reducing visibility.

 
Babies ( 6 – 12 months )

• apply broad-spectrum sunscreens with an SPF 15 or higher to uncovered areas such as  the baby’s hands
• the sunscreen should be applied 30 minutes before going out. It should be replied every two hours or after swimming or excessive sweating
• spray sunscreen should not be sprayed directly on the baby’s face.  The spray  should be misted in the hands and then spread on the face

 
Toddlers and preschoolers

• toddlers should be encouraged to stay out of the sun or take shade between 10am and 4pm when the sun’s rays are the strongest. Parents or caregivers should check on the child to make sure the play area is well shaded
• apply sunscreen of broad-spectrum with an SPF 15 or higher. A water-resistant, spray on sunscreen is a good choice for toddlers  who won’t sit still. You should note that spray sunscreen should be misted in the hands and spread on the face. Do not spray directly to the face
• toddlers should be covered in long sleeves cotton clothing to keep them cool and comfortable.  Clothing with an Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF)  listed on the label gives  extra security. The Skin Cancer Foundation recommends clothing with a UPF of 30 or higher
• offer toddlers wide brim hat that covers the face, neck and ears . Don’t forget sunglasses to protect the eyes

 
Protecting your baby from the harmful rays of the sun prevents health problems such as skin damage and skin cancer.
 
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