To protect your kid’s skin from the sun's harmful UV rays and reduce your risk you should:
- Dress your children in sun-protective clothing with UPF labeling and make sure your baby always wears a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses with UV protection.
- Keep your kids 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. Remember that the sun’s rays are the strongest between 10 a.m. and 4m.
- Apply a broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher to all skin not covered by clothing.
- 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.
- Stay safe on hot days. Make 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.
