There is no doubt that the sun is a great friend in moderation, as it is a direct source of vitamin D, which is essential for human development. However, excessive and inadequate exposure to the sun can cause irreparable skin problems, especially if it is a baby's skin. Therefore, if this is the first summer you are going to spend with your baby, take a series of recommendations to avoid burns and therefore bad moments, enjoy the summer safely and without risks for your little one.

Why is it important to protect babies' skin from the sun?

You should know that young children, especially babies, are very sensitive to solar radiation, which means that they burn easily and can easily get sunstroke and dehydration. So it doesn't matter if you are under an umbrella, the sun there reflects up to 30% which can still affect them. It is also important to take into account their age to know whether or not you can apply sunscreen, as this can be detrimental depending on their age. If right now you are wondering whether or not it is convenient to take your baby to the beach or outdoor pool this summer, the answer is: No. It is not advisable if he/she is older than 6 years old. No. It is not recommended if they are less than six months old, unless it is first thing in the morning when the sun is at its weakest (preferably before 11 am) or right after dinner.

When can sunscreen be applied to a baby?

It is very important to know that if your baby is 0 to 6 months old, you should not apply any sunscreen or sun cream. Although at such early ages the damage is irreparable, the composition of these products could affect your baby's skin producing irritation or itching, so it is best that as far as possible you do not expose it, avoid direct contact with the sun using clothing that covers it, a hat is also a good idea, look for the shade.

From 6 months to 3 years

When your baby is 6 months old, he/she can use sunscreen or sunscreen for babies. You must remember that between 6 months and 3 years they should use creams with mineral components, that is to say, with a physical filter. These protect against UVA and UVB rays. Although their consistency is thicker, the layers remain on the superficial part of the skin, which prevents allergies. If possible, choose a protection factor between 25 and 50.

From the age of 3

From this age you can choose a sunscreen with a chemical filter (obviously also mineral), you must check if the child suffers from any type of allergy and if so, avoid chemical components. Look for a high filter, higher than 25 and also waterproof. It should protect against UVB and UVA rays. Remember to apply the cream on the face and the most exposed parts such as neck, arms and legs. If they are at the beach, apply it all over the body and repeat the application every 4 to 6 hours or so.

What happens if I don't put my baby in the sun?

Like everything, the lack of sunshine in your baby also has consequences, one of them is to have altered bilirubin, that is serious, because it can cause deafness, cerebral palsy or other injuries, they may also not produce enough vitamin D.

How to choose a suitable sunscreen for babies?

To choose the perfect sunscreen or sunscreen for your baby you must take into account their skin type, because not all of them react the same way to sun exposure. There are six skin types, check which one your baby's skin type might be:

Phototype 1

It is a very pale and clear skin, some have freckles and it is common in children with blond or red hair. This skin is very delicate, it is not easy to tan, but burns easily. If your baby has this type of skin it is important to avoid the sun and only expose him/her to the sun during the less critical hours and for a short time, also use protective clothing and SPF 50+ sunscreen.

Phototype 2

Corresponds to light skins, just like phototype 1, they burn easily, with the difference that they can tan slightly, usually blondes. Here too, SPF 50+ protection is recommended.

Phototype 3

Usually corresponds to people with brown hair, although it is a white skin, it does not always burn and tans more easily, however, you should not choose a cream or protector below 50+

Phototype 4

This skin type is mixed or a little dark. It tans easily and tends to burn much less. If your child is over three years old, you can opt for a factor 30 cream at times when the sun does not have its maximum exposure, i.e. before 11 a.m. or after dinner.

Phototype 5

This is a dark skin, usually does not burn, at least not visibly, it tans and turns brown very quickly and instead of acquiring a reddish tone, it acquires an intense dark one. Even if the burns are not so noticeable, it is necessary to always use sunscreen.

Phototype 6

This is the one with black skin, apparently it never burns and tans very easily (but it really does burn, although it is not very visible and also suffers damage). This skin needs to use factor 30 as a minimum, do not neglect it!

What to do if a sunburn occurs in a baby?

You should know that if your baby is less than one year old and gets a sunburn, it should be treated as an emergency, so consult a doctor immediately. If the child is older, the first thing to do is to take a cool bath or put compresses on the sunburned area. You can also apply a topical moisturizer such as aloe gel or a special one for sunburned skin (for children). However, if it does not improve, it is best to consult your pediatrician.

Other sun protection measures for babies

In addition to sunscreen for your children, you can also include these items that help them avoid sunburn and skin problems due to prolonged exposure to the sun: 

Adequate clothing

 If you go to the beach or pool, or just for a walk in summer, look for clothes that protect him, but do not overheat him, check the materials, there are some brands that specialize in clothing for that season and suitable for babies.With comfortable and light clothing you will be able to enjoy beach fun games  without any inconvenience.

Kiddus sunglasses

Kiddus Sunglasses are a modern and cute option, there are very original designs for all ages from babies under six months to six year olds, so take a look to their baby sunglasses and include them this summer. 

Hats

Buy a hat of the baby's size and with which you can protect him from the sun, there are many designs and colors with which he will also look very cute.

Umbrellas

Always carry an umbrella, if you are going to be sitting with your baby for a long time, open the umbrella and keep the sun from falling directly on them. This minimizes exposure and damage.

Water

Carrying water and giving the child to drink in small sips prevents dehydration, so don't forget to bring a bottle.

Use caution when taking your baby into the water. If you do, you will see that he will be able to perform baby pool games without discomfort.

Below, we show you the sunglasses for babies in different styles, variety is always good.

 Conclusion

This summer taking care of your child's skin is essential (in winter too) but remember that now the sun's rays are stronger, so with a few recommendations and habits you can minimize sunburn in your children and save yourself a bad time. Sunscreen, checking their age and skin type, appropriate clothing, a good hat and sunglasses can make the difference this season.¡Do not leave out any element to protect them when they are activity on sunny day!

You can continue reading:sun rayz sunglasses