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Baby Sun Safety – Part 2

In East Tennessee, summer is meant for outdoor adventures. And for all the parents out there, it involves a whole new set of skin safety precautions. Your Knoxville Dermatology team is here to provide sun safety tips for children of all ages. In this entry, we will focus on tips for babies.

Babies

Children ages 6-12 months old can now safely wear sunscreen. While this expands the options for summer fun, it also increases the need for protection from  sun exposure. You should still avoid the peak times of 10 AM to 4 PM if at all possible. Dress children in lightweight clothing so their skin can breathe. Apply a broad-spectrum SPF of 15 or higher to areas that are left uncovered like hands, face and neck. Thankfully, most  companies that offer children’s sunscreens make them in tear-free formulas.

Timing is everything when it comes to effective sun protection. It’s important to apply sunscreen 30 minutes before stepping outside. It’s absolutely crucial that you reapply sunscreen every two hours or immediately after swimming or excessive sweating. Sunscreen does not protect children 100%. It is a powerful tool, but staying in the shade and wearing a sun visor or hat are simple, additional ways to  lower the risk of over exposure and keep kids cool.

Baby Sun Safety – Part 1

In East Tennessee, summer is meant for outdoor adventures. And for all the parents out there, it involves a whole new set of skin safety precautions. Your Knoxville Dermatology team is here to provide sun safety tips for children of all ages. In this entry, we will focus on tips for infants.

Infants

Children 6 months or younger should avoid the sun because their skin is extremely sensitive. It’s even too sensitive for most sunscreens. At this age, babies’ skin has very little melanin, which means very little natural sun protection. Between minimal natural protection and a sensitivity to sunscreen, you need a simple plan that will allow you to enjoy the outdoors while keeping your child’s skin safe.

It doesn’t have to be a summer lifestyle overhaul. You can make a simple change like taking advantage of earlier outdoor hours before 10 am or after 4 pm. You can put a sun-protective cover on your stroller or add mesh window shields to your car windows. It’s also important to dress your baby in lightweight, breathable clothing that covers arms and legs. Don’t forget to protect your baby’s face, neck and ears. A cute, little wide-brimmed hat will do the trick.

Don’t hide indoors all summer. With just a little prep and a simple plan, both you and baby can enjoy some beautiful summer sun together.