Sunscreen for Babies - 4 Things to Know Before Using Sunscreen on Your Baby

Written By Charlotte Jackson

Choosing the right sunscreen (or sunblock) can be overwhelming. There are so many to pick from and finding the right sunscreen in NZ with it’s very harsh sun is something you want to get right.

  1. Choosing a sunscreen

When it comes to sunscreen there are two types to pick from - Mineral and chemical sunscreen.

Mineral Sunscreen

  • Often has a zinc oxide base. It works by forming a physical barrier between the skin and the sun

  • Can be better for young babies and children with eczema

Chemical Sunscreen

  • Is absorbed into the skin and works but absorbing the UV rays

  • Can be more options for water-resistant sunscreen

2. When can Babies Wear Sunscreen?

Did you know it isn’t recommended babies under 6 months wear sunscreen? This is because they have extreemly sensitive and absorbent skin. There is two reasons this is worrying when it comes to sun safety

  1. They often have reactions to sunscreen

  2. Their skin is more likely to absorb UV rays and easily lead to sunburn more quickly

3. Protecting Babies from the Sun

It’s better to opt for a physical barrier than using sunscreen

key ways to protect your baby in the sun

  • A light layer of clothes that covers their arms and legs

  • A hat that covers their face

  • Seeking shade like a tree or a beach umbrella or tent

  • Keep baby out of direct sun - especially between high UV times

4. Using Sunscreen in a Babies under 6 Months

If you did choose to use sunscreen in your young baby do remember it isn’t recommended by any health body worldwide - this includes brands that say their sunscreens are recommended but the FDA in young children.

BUT we know life happens and sometimes you want to keep things in your back pocket for those days where shade might not be available or you have no choice but to have baby out in the sun

Here are some ways you can use sunscreen with reduced risk of reaction and sunburn

  • Choose a mineral sunscreen over a chemical

  • Use only on a small part of their body, not as a main protective barrier

  • Test a very small amount on their skin first

  • Reapply regularly, more regularly than you would for an older baby or child

  • Still aim to use clothes, hats and shade as the main UV protection and keep your baby out of direct sun rays

FOR MORE INFORMATION ON SUN SAFETY GRAB OUR FREE 12 PAGE GUIDE

THIS IS THE PERFECT GUIDE FOR YOU IF

  • You’re struggling with what sunscreen is right for your little ones

  • You want to protect your baby’s skin from the start

  • You want to feel confident in your sun safety routine

  • You’re not sure how much and when to apply sunscreen

  • You’re looking for a step-by-step sunburn first-aid plan

  • You want evidence-based and expert information from paediatric nurses

Charlotte Jackson
Next

Burns - Prevention & First Aid