Summer Sun Safety With Newborns
1376
post-template-default,single,single-post,postid-1376,single-format-standard,bridge-core-3.1.4,qode-page-transition-enabled,ajax_fade,page_not_loaded,boxed,,qode-child-theme-ver-1.0.0,qode-theme-ver-30.3,qode-theme-bridge,disabled_footer_top,qode_header_in_grid,wpb-js-composer js-comp-ver-7.5,vc_responsive

Summer Sun Safety With Newborns

Summer Sun Safety With Newborns

08 Jul Summer Sun Safety With Newborns

Posted at 10:45h in Baby by

It’s your first summer with the new baby and you may be wondering about the latest guidance on sun protection for newborns. 

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) recommend keeping babies 6 months old or younger out of direct sunlight. When adequate shade or clothing isn’t possible, applying a small amount of mineral based sunscreen (containing titanium dioxide or zinc oxide) on exposed skin is okay.

Mineral sunscreens are safer for young children than chemical sunscreens. Chemical sunscreens contain Oxybenzone, a known health hazard, and can cause a rash on sensitive skin. 

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) hasn’t caught up with this new guidance though and you’ll likely notice that all sunscreens (including mineral sunscreens) say the product isn’t recommended for babies under 6 months.

With a little preparation, you can keep your baby safe from the sun’s rays this summer. Here are our top tips:

  • Find shade wherever you are (under a tree, canopy, umbrella, or the stroller hood)
  • Pack sun protective clothing (lightweight, long sleeved shirt and pants, and a wide brimmed hat that covers the face, ears and back of neck)
  • Apply (if needed) a broad spectrum Mineral sunscreen SPF 30 or higher that is water resistant. 
  • No sunscreen is waterproof! Be sure to reapply every 2 hrs, or earlier, if your baby is swimming or sweating.
  • Keep a close eye on your baby for signs of overheating (fussiness, excessive crying, redness to exposed skin). If you notice these signs, take your baby inside immediately. 
  • Be sure to keep your baby hydrated (offer formula or breastmilk frequently) and be sure to hydrate yourself at the same time!

Check out these tips on keeping your little one safe.

 

 

REFERENCES:

    1. American Academy of Dermatology Association (AAD). 2023. Infant sun protection: how parents can keep their baby safe. https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/skin-cancer/prevent/sun-babies
    2. Centers for Disease Control (CDC). April 2023. Sun safety. https://www.cdc.gov/cancer/skin/basic_info/sun-safety.htm
    3. Photo by Goda Morgan from Pexels: Happy Couple With Little Baby On The Beach.  https://www.pexels.com/photo/happy-couple-with-little-baby-on-the-beach-18649758/
Print page
0 Likes
JessicaB
[email protected]