How to Choose a Sunscreen for Your Baby

Baby and toddler skin is particularly susceptible to sunburn and sun damage. Knowing which sunscreens to purchase is an important step in protecting them from UV rays.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Be familiar with SPF, or "Sun Protection Factors." This number is an indication of how long you can stay out in the sun relative to if you were not wearing sunscreen. For example, a sunscreen with an SPF of 15 will allow an average person to stay out in the sun 15 times longer than if they were unprotected.

2. Choose a sunscreen with an SPF of 30 (which blocks 97 percent of UV rays). Sunscreens with SPF lower than 30 are not as protective. Conversely, sunscreens with an SPF of greater than 30 do not offer that much more protection.

3. Check the contents of the bottle and make sure there are no harsh chemicals, which can be bad for your baby's sensitive skin. Sunscreen containing zinc or titanium dioxide are generally free of such chemicals.

4. Find a sunscreen that offers both UV-B and UV-A protection. While UV-B is the type of UV radiation that causes sunburn, UV-A radiation causes damage to the deeper layers of the skin and can cause premature aging. Finding a sunscreen with both levels of protection is best.

Tips & Warnings

• Sunscreens that are both safe and effective for your baby may cost a little more than regular sunscreens, but are worth it.
• Always use extra precautions such as long-sleeved clothing, hats and sunglasses to further protect your little ones.
• Sunscreen safety has been tested only on infants over 6 months of age. It is recommended that infants younger than 6 months avoid sun exposure completely.

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