You may be tempted to reach for the sunscreen, but The Skin Cancer Foundation recommends waiting until the baby is 6 months old before introducing sunscreen. The best ways to keep infants sun safe are with shade and clothing.
Is any sunscreen safe for babies?
For newborns and babies under 6 months, The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) says that parents can apply a minimal amount of baby-safe sunscreen with an SPF of 30-50 (no lower than SPF 15, though) to the face, back of the hands and tops of the feet.
Why can’t you put sunscreen on a newborn?
Avoid sunscreen for babies younger than six months of age. Here’s why it’s not recommended: Babies’ skin may not be able to keep out the chemicals in sunscreen as effectively as older children and adults. Babies’ skin may be more sensitive and more likely to develop rash or irritation.
Why can’t babies under 6 months wear sunscreen?
Your infant’s sensitive skin is vulnerable to serious burns. But sunscreen isn’t the answer, according to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. That’s because infants are at greater risk than adults of sunscreen side effects, such as a rash.
At what age can you put sunscreen on your baby? – Related Questions
How do I protect my 2 month old from the sun?
Keep your baby in the shade as much as possible, and if you can’t find shade, create your own using an umbrella, canopy or the hood of a stroller. Dress your baby in sun-protective clothing, such as a lightweight, long-sleeved shirt and pants. Minimize sunscreen use on children younger than six months old.
How soon can a newborn go outside?
According to most pediatric health experts, infants can be taken out in public or outside right away as long as parents follow some basic safety precautions. There’s no need to wait until 6 weeks or 2 months of age. Getting out, and in particular, getting outside in nature, is good for parents and babies.
Can I take my 2 week old to the beach?
Yes, you can take newborn to the beach! You might need to make sure you have a spot to put your baby down to sleep on the beach. We also recommend consulting your doctor about sunscreen on newborns. Typically the recommendation is to wait until a baby is 6 months old for sunscreen.
How long can newborns be in the sun?
While children under 6 months old should never be exposed to the sun, once they reach 6 months, they should wear sunglasses outside. If they require prescription glasses, they should also wear prescription sunglasses.
Can a 2 month old be in the sun?
Keep your baby cool and protect them from the sun. Babies less than 6 months old should be kept out of direct sunlight. Their skin contains too little melanin, which is the pigment that gives skin, hair and eyes their colour, and provides some protection from the sun.
How should I dress my baby in the sun?
Be prepared for everything by packing an umbrella or sun hat. Dress your baby in lightweight clothes. Breathable fabrics like cotton are best. Make sure your baby stays hydrated by frequently offering breast milk or formula, or offer water if they’re older than 6 months.
Can a 2 month old use a fan?
Fans should never blow directly on the baby and should be out of baby’s reach. A lukewarm bath or cool wash cloth can help cool baby down. In very hot weather, take your baby somewhere with air-conditioning such as a mall or a friend’s house. If you have air conditioning, your home may be cool enough.
What outside temperature is too hot for a baby?
What outside temperature is too hot for a baby? The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) suggests parents avoid taking babies outside for long periods of time if the heat index is greater than 90 degrees Fahrenheit. Prolonged outdoor exposure on extremely hot days can cause babies to overheat quickly.
Will babies cry if they overheat?
The temperature can make your baby cry. They may cry because they are too hot or too cold. If your baby is fussy because of the temperature, there are signs that you can look for. Signs of the baby being too hot are sweating, damp hair, heat rash, or clammy skin.
When can babies drink water?
If your baby is around 6 months old, you can offer small amounts of cooled boiled tap water but you should not replace their breastmilk or formula feeds. Breastmilk or formula should still be their main drink up to 12 months of age. After 12 months, their main drink should be water and cow’s milk or breastmilk.
How do I tell if my baby is too hot?
Here are some indicators a baby is too hot:
- Warm to the touch.
- Flushed or red skin.
- Rapid heartbeat.
- Fast breathing.
- Vomiting.
- Lethargic or unresponsive.
- Sweaty neck or damp hair.
- Heat rash.
Why is SIDS risk higher at 2 months?
SIDS is most common at 2-4 months of age when the cardiorespiratory system of all infants is in rapid transition and therefore unstable. So, all infants in this age range are at risk for dysfunction of neurological control of breathing.
When should we stop swaddling your baby?
You should stop swaddling your baby when he starts attempting to roll over. Many babies start working on this move at about 2 months old. Swaddling once your baby can roll over may increase the risk of SIDS (sudden infant death syndrome) and suffocation.
How should you dress a newborn for bed?
Dress your baby in layers of fitted clothing rather than just thick pyjamas. You can add or take away layers as the temperature changes. Babies cool themselves down by releasing heat from their heads and faces. Babies can quickly overheat if they fall asleep wearing hats or beanies.
What do you do with a newborn all day?
You may prefer that your day-to-day activities follow what your newborn does.
Cuddling and playing
- making eye contact, smiling and talking.
- singing nursery rhymes.
- taking your baby for a walk.
- reading or telling them a story.
- making faces.
- blowing raspberries.
How will I know if my newborn is cold?
Although your baby’s hands and face may feel cold, this may differ from their core body temperature. To give you a better idea if they are warm or cold, feel the skin on their tummy and back. Their skin should feel warm and not too hot or cold.