The sun is shining and the weather has turned warmer. It's a fun time to get out and about with your little one and explore the world around you. For many babies, this may be their first time being exposed to a more significant amount of sunshine. With simple tips and tricks, you can make summertime fun and safe for your babe.
Stick to the Shade
Keeping sensitive skin out of direct sun exposure is vital, particularly for babies under 6 months old who cannot wear sunscreen yet. Stick to shady areas or create your own shade. If you're at the park or the beach, using a pop-up shade tent allows them to be a part of the action while staying out of the direct sun. Better yet, keep the whole crew sun safe and use a larger canopy cabana cover. The sun is at its strongest between the hours of 10 am and 2 pm, so avoiding those hours outdoors is also a great way to keep protected.
Wearing UV-protective clothing and sunglasses is another great way to protect babies from the harm of UV damage. Covering the area with a thin, UV-specific protective barrier can help keep them safe whether in the direct sun or shade. With so many cute options, from swimwear to clothing, there's no reason not to wear sun protection. (P.S. There are lots of grown-up styles as well!)
Monica + Andy one-piece swimsuit $30, Monica + Andy sunhat $18
Patagonia Silkweight hoodie $45, Patagonia baby sunhat $39
Coolibar baby swim set $30-45, Coolibar baby bucket hat $20-30
Hipster Kid sunglasses $24, Babiator sunglasses $32
Sunscreen Like You Mean It
Using a mineral-based, broad-spectrum sunscreen has been shown to be an effective option for sun protection for everyone over the age of 6 months. Under 6 months of age, sunscreen is not recommended. Stick to protective clothing, shade, and sun avoidance for the youngest of babes. Mineral-based sunscreens typically have either zinc oxide or titanium dioxide as the lead ingredient. I prefer unscented sunscreens to reduce irritation risk on sensitive skin. Even as an adult, I use unscented sunscreen. Formulations may vary between baby and kid's versions of sunscreens as baby skin is more sensitive. I typically recommend the baby version for under 2 years of age and then do a patch test above age two to test for irritation before slathering it on your toddler.
The recommended amount of sunscreen to use for a baby or toddler is half of a shot glass amount, about ½ ounce. For adults, use a full ounce at least. Apply liberally and often, particularly after swimming or activity. Most baby sunscreens come in high SPF ratings, usually 50+. Sunscreen with a high SPF should still be reapplied frequently. As tempting as spray and stick sunscreens are, it is most recommended to use a cream sunscreen to get the most coverage. I like to use a makeup brush or sponge to make the application more manageable as it is more tolerated by little ones and makes the application smoother. For bigger toddlers and kids, they may even enjoy applying it on themselves. Just be mindful to keep it out of eyes and mouths. And don't forget to get in the baby rolls, creases between fingers and toes, ears, bottoms of feet, the back of the neck, and anywhere that clothing lines end that could roll up. For babies without hair or with fine hair, apply to their scalps as well or keep them in a protective hat.
Think Baby $18.29 (I did try the Sport version of Think Kids $20.51 and found it to have a very white cast that did not rub in, which was not ideal for us)
Sun Bum Kids Clear $17.49 This one is clear and rubs in the best of any that I tried. However, it is heavily scented like a banana. For me, that was a huge negative but for others may be desirable.
Supergoop Sunnyscreen $28. I'm a fan of Supergoop adult sunscreens for lightweight daily use. Admittedly, the Sunnyscreen is thicker and whiter than the clear adult versions.
Babo Botanical Clear Zinc $15.99 This sunscreen is clear, however, does have the lowest SPF of the listed sunscreens at SPF 30. Reapply more frequently if you chose this one.
Black Girl Sunscreen Kids $9.99 This sunscreen is specially formulated for melanin-rich skin tones and rubs in beautifully. This is my personal top pick and I purchased the grown-up version as well.
Badger Kids with clear zinc oxide $15.29 Another clear zinc option that comes highly recommended when I polled other parents.
Don't Overheat
Preventing babies and little ones from overheating is important during the warmer months. Sweat glands mature during the first two years of life and cannot function at the same level as an adult. This means that your baby's body cannot sweat like you do, thus being less effective at cooling. They are also unable to communicate that they are feeling hot or unwell like an older child may be able to. Keep babies shaded and covered, while not overly warm can feel like an impossible challenge. Stick to natural fiber materials like cotton, linen, and bamboo to help keep a lightweight covering. UPF protective clothing while exposed to sunlight can help as well. The general rule of thumb for dressing an infant, regardless of the weather, is 1 layer more than an adult. Although there's no need for a cardigan or coat when the temps are soaring! If you're in direct sun or the temperatures are high taking frequent breaks will help reduce the risk of overheating.
A common mistake that I see when trying to shade babies is covering their stroller or car seat with a blanket or swaddle. While it makes sense to create your own shade to keep them cool, it traps heat inside. This makes their stroller or car seat into a sauna and creates more risk than it reduces from sun exposure. Many stroller and car seat brands have built-in sun visors or have optional ones for purchase that allow for appropriate airflow. Some opt for an umbrella that attaches to the stroller to create shade. If traveling by car, you can purchase a window sun shade to keep bright sun off sensitive skin.
Goldflower Car Window Shade 2 pack $10.19
Safefit Baby Car Shade 2 pack $12.48
Munchkin Brica Sun Safety Shade 2 pack $14.99
Keep Hydrated
Keeping hydrated is important in warm weather for babies and adults alike. Babies under 6 months of age should not drink water as their kidneys cannot process it well. Continue to feed them their usual milk or formula, and increase as needed to maintain hydration. For babies and toddlers older than 6 months, have water handy and offer it frequently. If drinking fluids is not as exciting, you can offer juicy fruits and veggies, including purees and puree pouches for those that are eating solids. Making your own popsicles (even breastmilk ones!) can be a fun way to encourage taking in more liquids. Popsicles can also help ease teething discomfort as well as introduce new tastes in a novel way.
EZPZ Tiny Pop molds $18.99
Signs of Overheating/ Heat Rash
It's important to be aware of the signs of overheating and overexposure. Even for parents who are the most diligent, it can be so easy for a baby to overheat or develop a heat rash.
Heat rash may appear as red bumps on the skin. Areas that are more prone to heat rash are where the skin tends to fold and roll together like the neck, elbows and knees, groin area, and chest. Wipe the irritated areas with a clean, cool washcloth or give them a cool bath. Dry gently and dress them in clean clothing. Removing the sweat from the irritated skin will allow the body to readjust and clear the rash.
Notice the signs of overheating by keeping an eye out for extreme fatigue or drowsiness, loss of interest in eating or drinking, a flushed face, and excessive sweat (although as mentioned, may not be more obvious until sweat glands are more developed by age 2). If you notice signs of overheating, take your baby to a cooler location, apply cool wash clothes, or give them a cool bath. Remove sweaty clothing, wipe the skin clean of sweat, and redress in clean and dry clothing. If there are signs of extreme heat exposure such as vomiting, muscle spasms, or fast breathing, take them to the pediatrician or urgent care right away as they may need medical attention.
Summertime is a time of adventure and fun. With these simple tips and facts, you'll be able to enjoy this season with your little one safely. Happy Summer!