Being together outside as a family is one of the best parts of summer. Of course, you want to include your baby, too! One of the most common questions I am asked in the summer is about sunscreen and babies. We all know that sun protection is essential at every age, but babies have extra-sensitive skin, and their bodies handle heat differently than ours. Here’s how to keep your little one safe.

For Babies Under 6 Months

Babies this age are more vulnerable to UV rays and heat. Whenever possible:

  • Keep them out of direct sunlight. This protects their delicate skin and eyes, helps prevent overheating, and keeps them more comfortable. Babies don’t sweat the same way we do and overheat easily.
  • Avoid using sunscreen routinely at this age. You can use a small amount if needed on small, exposed areas, such as the hands, feet, and face; however, physical barriers like clothing and shade are more effective.

Smart sun protection tips

  • Stay in the shade. This is the best protection. Limit their time outside to avoid sun damage and overheating. Use a stroller canopy, umbrella, or pop-up tent when you’re out in the sun.
  • Limit outdoor time during peak sun hours 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.) when the ultraviolet rays are the greatest. (Of course, earlier and later are when mosquitoes are at their worst!)
  • Avoid covering car seats or strollers with blankets – this can cause dangerous overheating.
  • Dress your baby in loose-fitting, light colored, breathable clothing that covers the arms and legs.
  • Choose tightly woven clothing or clothing with UV protection to shield against UV light, but opt for loose-fitting and lightweight options to prevent overheating. Remember, clothing does not prevent all sunburns; it only helps reduce the risk of sunburn. If you can see your hand through the fabric, then it is not offering much sun protection
  • Use a wide-brimmed hat to shield your baby’s face and neck.
  • Don’t forget to protect their eyes! Keep them in the shade and use infant sunglasses with UV protection.
  • Remember that the sun also reflects off water and sand.

When you need sunscreen

It’s okay to use a small amount of sunscreen on exposed areas such as the face, hands, and feet.

  • Choose a mineral (barrier) sunscreen with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide – these are the safest for babies’ sensitive skin. They even come in sticks to rub on!
  • You can also use chemical sunscreens. Avoid those with oxybenzone.
  • Look for a broad-spectrum sunscreen (protecting against UVA and UVB) with an SPF of 30 or higher.
  • Wash off the sunscreen as soon as you come inside.
  • Avoid combination sunscreens that contain insect repellent. Don’t use these in children.
  • Don’t use spray sunscreens on children.
  • Be sure to reapply sunscreen every few hours!
  • Wash sunscreen off when you come back indoors.
  • And of course, don’t let your baby put sunscreen in their mouth!

Other Warm-Weather Safety Tips

  • Be sure to stay hydrated. Water can be dangerous to babies; feed your baby breastmilk or formula regularly and monitor their urine output.
  • Reminder: Never leave your baby in the car!

Helpful Resources

Should You Put Sunscreen on Infants? Not Usually (FDA)

Sunscreen: How to Help Protect Your Skin from the Sun (FDA)

Tips to Stay Safe in the Sun: From Sunscreen to Sunglasses (FDA)

 Infant sun protection: How parents can keep their baby safe (American Academy of Dermatology)