Basic Baby Protection
from the Sun

Just because your baby is young, doesn't mean she is somehow immune to the effects of the sun.

In fact, clinicians recommend that babies under 6 months do not spend time under the sun at all. Their skin is too sensitive for the sun's powerful UVA and UVB rays.

However, sometimes that level of protection just isn't possible. There are sports games for the older kids, company picnics, family reunions...not to mention the inner-longing of getting out of the house on a beautiful day.

If you are venturing out, use these infant sun protection guidelines to keep him safe.

Of course, don't forget the rest of the outdoors! Learn how to protect your infant outside from insects, heatstroke and water accidents.

If you're planning on introducing your baby to the joys of water, see this summer's cutest swimsuits for infants and make already-sweet photos adorable.

A baby sun shade like this one looks like a tent and offers a SPF protection of 50. Your infant can still enjoy the breeze and sites of being out-of-doors, and you don't have to risk sunburns. It quickly folds up (and down) for easy storage or delivery to a beach or park.

The Importance of Infant Sunglasses

{Photo by Jeff Marchant}

Of course, some babies absolutely will not wear sunglasses (even with straps). If that describes your infant, insist he wear a sun hat instead.

Infant sunglasses should have 100% UVA and UVB protection created by chemicals in the lenses. Don't judge a pair of glasses by the darkness of their lens. Look for the 100% UVA and UVB guarantee before you buy.

The lenses should be dark brown or black, not pink, yellow or blue. The lighter your baby's, the darker the tint should be.

Don't waste $6.00 on a cheapo pair of plastic sunglasses. They won't last long before breaking and you'll probably have a hard time getting them to stay on your baby's face.

Jaz O makes an awesome pair of infant sunglasses that are attractive, sturdy, and easily adjustable for a growing baby. The comfortable strap (that keeps them on your baby's face) makes them a worthwhile purchase.

I recommend purchasing multiple containers of sunscreen at a time. This way you can tuck one in the diaper bag, car, by the back door, near the dresser, etc. Having it close by when you need it will help you use it more often.

A good baby protection sunscreen has an SPF of 15 or greater (the higher the better). A broad spectrum (UVA and UVB) coverage is highly encouraged.

A specially formulated sunscreen for babies will lower the likelihood of an allergic reaction. It is also formulated not to be toxic if your baby accidently ingests some (by slobbering on fingers or toes).

Another semi-requirement for a sunscreen should be one in a continuous spray bottle. I personally use this one by Coppertone Water Babies for both my girls. The spray helps you evenly, yet sparingly, provide baby protection from the sun.

Always spray it on your hands before applying to your baby's face. If your baby happens to be follicly-challenged and almost bald, the continuous spray will help get the sunscreen onto his scalp. Applying lotion would turn what little hair he has into paste. Of course, you should still always use a sun hat.

{Lauren models a Bucket Hat}

Sunday Afternoon makes wonderful play hats in girl- and boy-colors for babies. The hats are water-resistant and are rated with a 45 UPF. They blocks both UVA and UVB rays and come in a wide variety of colors for girls and boys. I would highly encourage you to consider purchasing one for your baby.

If you're looking for a less casual hat, they also make Bucket Hats for boys and girls that are actually stylish and effective in offering baby protection from the sun's hazardous rays.

Infant Water Shoes: 2-Level Baby Protection

Purchasing baby water shoes solves that problem. The shoes protect sensitive toes and feet from harsh UV rays (without the lotion), while allowing baby to explore the baby pool. They dry quickly and won't mold or smell funny after a few uses.

Once your baby starts walking, the hard rubber sole allows him to safely transition from pool to ground without fear of hard rocks or slivered mulch providing tender ouchies.

These baby water shoes from Tuga are sized from newborns (size 1) up to age 7 (size 11). Next to a good baby swimsuit, this may be your smartest purchase this summer.

What you can't see can hurt your baby. Don't neglect to consider proper infant skin care when venturing out-of-doors.

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