When is it safe to use sunscreen on infants?

What if your baby is younger than 6 months?

Baby skin is thinner than an older child's skin, and infants are more vulnerable than adults to sunscreen side effects such as a rash. Shade and clothing are the first choices, rather than routine sunscreen application. Use a tree, umbrella or stroller canopy for shade, with lightweight clothing that covers the arms and legs. Choose a hat that shades the face, ears and neck; a baseball cap leaves the ears and neck exposed.23

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 a younger baby's exposed skin. This is a fallback, not a replacement for keeping your baby out of the sun. Speak with their pediatrician before using it.24

Which sunscreen should you choose?

For babies aged 6 months and older, choose SPF 30 or higher, broad spectrum protection and water resistance. Broad spectrum means protection against both UVA and UVB, the sun's two types of harmful ultraviolet rays. Look for zinc oxide or titanium dioxide in the active ingredients list. These mineral ingredients are less likely to irritate babies' sensitive skin.456

The word "baby" has no FDA definition on sunscreen labels. Check the protection claims and ingredients rather than choosing by that word alone, which is less charming than shopping by nursery vocabulary. A baby label does not change the advice for children younger than 6 months.5

How to apply sunscreen from 6 months

1. 1Read the sunscreen's directions and check its expiry date before use.
2. 2Apply generously and evenly to skin not covered by clothing or a hat, at least 15 minutes before going outside. Remember exposed ears and the backs of the hands.
3. 3Keep your baby in the shade and use protective clothing even after applying sunscreen.
4. 4Reapply every 2 hours while outdoors, immediately after swimming or sweating, and after towelling off.

Water resistant does not mean waterproof. Labels state 40 or 80 minutes of water resistance; check your bottle's instructions. No sunscreen blocks all ultraviolet radiation, and a higher SPF is not permission to stay outside longer. Sun protection still matters on cloudy days.67

What if sunscreen irritates your baby's skin?

A "sensitive skin" label has no FDA definition either, so the bottle does not get to grade its own manners, even with quotation marks dressed for the occasion.5

Before using a new sunscreen, test a small area on the inner forearm and check for a reaction after 48 hours, especially with sensitive skin. If a rash, itching or another reaction develops, stop using that product and try a different type or brand. Ask a healthcare professional about a reaction or help choosing an alternative.7

Protect against heat as well as sunburn

Use a pushchair parasol or sunshade, never a blanket over the pram, because a blanket can cause overheating. Dress your baby in lightweight clothing without too many layers and check them regularly. Keep older babies out of the sun as much as possible too, particularly around midday.1

If your baby becomes unusually fussy, cries excessively or develops redness on exposed skin, take them indoors immediately. If they are becoming sunburned, apply cold compresses to the affected areas and call their pediatrician right away.24