Can I use sunscreen on a baby?

At what age can babies wear sunscreen?

Routine sunscreen use starts at 6 months. Younger infants have a greater risk of sunscreen side effects, including a rash, so shade and clothing are the first choice. There is a limited exception: if shade and adequate clothing are unavailable, dermatologists allow a minimal amount of broad spectrum, water resistant SPF 30 or higher sunscreen on exposed skin. Check with your pediatrician before using that option. Sunscreen is a backup in this situation, not a replacement for keeping a young baby out of the sun.23

Should babies use mineral sunscreen?

Mineral sunscreen containing zinc oxide, titanium dioxide or both is a good choice because these filters are less likely to irritate a baby's sensitive skin. Choose SPF 30 or higher, broad spectrum protection and water resistance. Broad spectrum means protection against both UVA and UVB rays, which is more useful information than a smiling sun on the bottle. Mineral filters protect mainly by absorbing ultraviolet radiation, rather than acting only as a reflective shield.345

For a baby with eczema, choose fragrance free sunscreen with those mineral filters, broad spectrum protection and SPF 30 or higher. "Unscented" is not the same as fragrance free: it can contain fragrance whose smell is masked. Sunburn can trigger eczema, so avoiding irritating products should not mean skipping sun protection. Ask your child's dermatologist for product suggestions if finding a suitable formula is difficult.1

How do I apply sunscreen to a baby?

Sunscreen comes as creams, lotions and sticks, so choosing a format need not become a research degree. Follow the product's directions because application instructions differ between formats. Never spray sunscreen directly onto the face. For babies aged 6 months or older, use this sequence:4

1. 1Put protective clothing and a sunhat on your baby, then identify the skin still exposed.
2. 2Apply sunscreen 15 minutes before sun exposure. Use plenty to cover exposed skin evenly, while avoiding the eyes and mouth.
3. 3Check easily missed exposed areas, including the ears, back of the neck, hands and tops of the feet.
4. 4Reapply every 2 hours outdoors and immediately after swimming or sweating. Water resistant sunscreen still washes off; check the label's water resistance and reapplication directions.

How do I protect a baby from the sun?

Keep babies of every age in shade as much as possible. Use a tree, umbrella, canopy or stroller sunshade, and plan outings away from the strongest midday sun. Dress your baby in lightweight clothing that covers the arms and legs, plus a wide brimmed hat that shades the face, ears and neck. A baseball cap leaves the ears and neck exposed. Choose tightly woven fabric rather than sheer clothing, and use sunglasses with UV protection.23

Do not drape a blanket over a stroller or pram: it can cause overheating. Avoid too many clothing layers and check your baby regularly. Younger babies can overheat easily because their cooling system is still developing. Continue breast milk or formula feeds; fully breastfed babies under 6 months do not need extra water before starting solid foods.26

When should I take my baby indoors or call a doctor?

Take your baby indoors immediately if they become fussy, cry excessively or develop redness on exposed skin. These can be warning signs of sunburn or dehydration. If your baby is becoming sunburned, leave the sun, apply cold compresses to the affected skin and call your pediatrician right away.23