If you’re a parent, it’s important to protect your kids while they’re in the sun. Babies, toddlers and young children have very sensitive skin that can be easily damaged from the sun’s harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays. Here are some sun safety tips for kids.
Infants ( 0-6 months )
Infants under six months of age should be kept out of the sun completely. Their skin has very little melanin, pigment, and it’s too sensitive for sunscreen.
- Use a stroller with a sun-protective cover
- Take walks before 10 AM or after 4 PM
- Dress the baby in lightweight clothing that covers the arms and legs, and a bonnet or wide-brimmed hat that protects the face, ears and neck.
- In the car, use UV window film or removable mesh window shields to keep direct sunlight off of the baby.
Babies ( 6-12 months )
With all the great sun protection products, including chemical free sunscreen and tear-free formulas that won’t sting your baby’s eyes, it’s now safe to use sunscreen on babies within this age group.
- Apply an SPF 15 or SPF 30 sunscreen to all uncovered skin areas, including the hands and feet. When using a spray, don’t apply it directly to the baby’s face. Spray it into your hands, then gently apply that to the baby’s face.
- Apply sunscreen at least 30 minutes before going outdoors, and reapply it every two hours or immediately after swimming or sweating.
Toddlers and Young Children ( 1-6 years )
Protecting active toddlers and young children may require more effort than infants and babies. This age group loves to play outdoors and keeping up with them can be a challenge.
- Use an SPF 15 or SPF 30 water-resistant sunscreen. For kids that don’t stay still long, try a spray-on sunscreen. Spray your hands first, then apply it to their face avoiding the eyes.
- Try to schedule outdoor activities before 10 AM or after 4 PM. If your child attends pre-school, this may not be possible, so make sure there’s adequate shade on the playground.
- Provide protective clothing. Some children’s clothing has an Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF) that’s shown on the label. Look for a UPF 30 or higher for adequate protection.
Studies done by The Skin Cancer Foundation show that 22 percent of children get sunburned during their first summer, and 54 percent during their second summer. Protect your kids now from sun damage that can show up later in life.
