Who doesn’t love summer? And now that lockdown measures are easing, we are all more eager than ever to go outside and spend more time outdoors with our family and friends.
For those who have babies at home, summer also means taking further protection measures for the youngest ones of our family. We all love the softness and sweet smell of baby skin, but their skin barrier is thinner than adults, making it way more susceptible (1) and vulnerable to sun exposure during the hot summer months.
In this post we’ll share a few important tips on how to protect your baby’s skin during summer, because we know that taking care of your little ones is your priority!
ALSO READ: Dermatologist Advice on Protecting Your Skin for further information.
Protecting your baby’s skin during summer
1. Importance of the shade
Summer heat can be annoying for many people, and babies are not an exception. Babies are highly vulnerable to temperature changes, which is why we need to make sure they are kept cool in summer. Shade should be your new baby’s favourite spot these next hot months!
For infants under 6 months old, it is important not to expose them to direct sunlight, as their skin is too delicate and can get easily sunburned. When outside the house, cover their arms and legs with clothing – if possible light cotton and linen – and should always wear hats with and all-around three -inch brim. For extra protection, consider getting a buggy parasol.
For older babies and children, sun exposure should also be limited, specially when the sun is at its hottest. To protect your baby during summer is also recommendable avoiding sun’s hours of greatest intensity, around 10 am to 4pm. Make sure they wear cool clothes and a hat with a wide brim or a long flap at the back to protect their neck. Infants’ skin is very sensitive and avoiding direct sun to their skin is necessary.
Consult an online dermatologist 24 hours and get an answer on your skin concern.
2. Sunscreen, your new best friend
A bottle of sunscreen should be in your bag at all times during summer months. It has to become your new essential item!
Babies younger than 6 months old are not recommended to use sunscreen, as their skin is still way too delicate (2) (3). Is recommendable to keep them out of direct sunlight, protected by the shade of a tree or an umbrella. However, if full sun exposure is completely unavoidable, apply a minimal amount of high SPF broad-spectrum zinc oxide or titanium dioxide sunscreen to your baby’s face and at the back of his hands (4) (5).
Babies over six months old should have sunscreen applied every few hours, specially after going swimming. Choose a sunscreen with high SPF, preferably over 50+, to avoid getting sunburns that can cause eczemas. Cover all your little one and don’t forget any part of their tiny body. For young children, you can even make a game out of it!
READ The Best Sunscreen Is One You’ll Use for more information about solar protection.
3. Keep them hydrated
Who doesn’t enjoy a fresh cold glass of water after being outside on a hot summer day? It is extremely important to keep our little ones hydrated all day long (6) . Make sure that, whatever drink they are having (breastmilk, water, juice…), they have lots of it! (7)
For those older babies, having some fresh fruit such as melon or strawberries can also be a good way to keep them hydrated and cool. Also, it can be a good idea to carry a spray with water in your bag to refresh them and soothe the skin whenever is needed.
Consult an online dermatologist 24 hours and get an answer on your skin concern.
4. Let’s enjoy your summer!
Summer is one of the best times of the year! Try to be creative and come up with new routines and games for your little ones! Try to spend as much time as possible in the shade and remember to always cover them with sunscreen. Also keep yourself and your loved ones fully hydrated. There are some fun ways to do that, such as having water games or water battles! Let the summer fun begin!
We hope this has answered any concerns on whether a tattoo can cause skin cancer. Remember if you’re concerned about a spot or mole, consult our dermatologists for immediate peace of mind.
Consult an online dermatologist 24 hours and get an answer on your skin concern.
The Specialist doctor from the University Hospital in Gothenburg, alumnus UC Berkeley. My doctoral dissertation is about Digital Health and I have published 5 scientific articles in teledermatology and artificial intelligence and others.