- Limit exposure. Your baby's skin is thinner than yours, so it's more susceptible to sunburn. Try not to have your baby in the sun between the hours of 10 a.m. and 3 p.m., when the sun's rays are at their strongest. Some experts recommend keeping babies younger than 6 months of age out of the sun altogether.
- Apply sunscreen (liberally and often). Use a sunscreen with a minimum SPF of 30, and apply it 30 minutes before you and your baby head out so her skin can absorb it. Don't forget her neck, ears and the tops of her feet. Reapply every two hours, or more often if you're swimming. And look for a sunscreen that protects against both UVA and UVB sunlight.
- Cover up! Wide-brimmed hats not only look adorable on your baby, but they protect her from the sun. Sunglasses with a UV filter also will help protect her eyes. If your baby is younger than 6 months old, you might want to dress her in lightweight, long-sleeved shirts and pants. And remember, your baby's skin can burn even when skies are overcast!
- Watch the medications. Some medicines can make skin more sensitive to the sun, so if your child is taking any, be sure to ask your doctor or pharmacist if this side effect is possible.
- Location, location, location. The sun's rays are more intense near water and surfaces such as white cement because those surfaces reflect sunlight. Plan accordingly to keep your baby's skin protected.
- Remember your own sunscreen! You'll have lots more relaxing fun if you apply your own sunscreen, taking particular care of the delicate skin on your face, with Olay® Regenerist UV Defense Enhancing Lotion With SPF 15.
If your baby does get a sunburn, treat her with cool compresses, a cool bath and plenty of cool fluids to drink. To make the bath more soothing, add baking soda or an oatmeal-based bath treatment. Pat — don't rub — your baby's skin dry. A water-based (nonalcohol) moisturizing lotion or an aloe vera gel can relieve itching. And if your baby develops a fever or chills, contact your pediatrician.
