Sunscreen Savvy
When it comes to little ones, all sunscreens are not created equal. For example, clear or gel-like alcohol-based products may burn your toddler’s skin.
- Try a lotion or creamy product with an SPF between 15 and 30, and test a small area on your child’s arm first to see if she’s sensitive to a particular sunscreen.
- If there are no adverse reactions, apply a generous amount of sunscreen 30 minutes to an hour before exposure to the sun. That allows the sunscreen’s protection to become most effective.
- If your toddler will be in and out of water, apply a waterproof sunscreen product every couple of hours to maximize protection.
- While your child’s engaged in water play, try Pampers® Splashers Swim Pants™. They have a snug fit and won't swell up in water like regular diapers.
Clothing can provide an excellent barrier to screen out the sun’s rays. While short-sleeve tops and shorts help keep kids cool in warm weather, the best outfits comfortably cover as much of the skin as possible any time kids are outdoors.
- Dress your toddler in long-sleeve tops and pants made of tightly woven but loose-fitting fabrics. Hold the items up to the light — if you can’t see through them, they’re what you want.
- Look for brands of children’s clothes that are lightweight and specifically made for sun protection. In a pinch, a long, white adult T-shirt also works well.
- Top off your child’s sun-safety attire with a wide-brimmed hat.
When you’re out and about this summer, remember these helpful tips, too.
- Apply lip balm with an SPF of 15 or more to your toddler’s tender mouth, and an opaque zinc oxide sunblock on exposed areas such as nose, cheeks and ears.
- If you can, avoid sun exposure from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. This is when the sun’s rays are most intense. Keep in mind that even on cloudy days, the sun can be just as strong; you’ll want to use these same precautions on those days as well.
- On the beach, keep your child in the shade with a large umbrella that helps prevent the sun’s rays from reflecting off the white sand.
- When you’re out for a walk, make sure the stroller offers plenty of shade, with a hood or other protective structure.
- Try to get your toddler to wear sunglasses that are labeled “100 percent UV filtration.”
