5 ways to protect little ones from the sun

Health

Published on 10/05/2023

5 ways to protect little ones from the sun

With the return of sunny days and the first rays of sunshine, UV rays become a real threat to babies' sensitive skin. What precautions should you take to protect your baby’s skin? And what are the risks of overexposure? Here are our tips and advice to help you enjoy the holidays while keeping your little one’s skin safe.

Summary

What steps should you take to protect children from UV rays?
What to do in case of sunburn?

What steps should you take to protect children from UV rays?

No prolonged sun exposure before age 3

Before the age of three, it’s strongly recommended to avoid direct sun exposure. A baby’s skin is very thin and highly vulnerable to UV rays, which are responsible for premature skin aging and can increase the risk of skin cancer later in life. A sunburn at this age can cause serious physical damage.

Use sunscreen with the highest protection factor

Apply sunscreen at least 30 minutes before going outside, and be sure to reapply it every two hours, or immediately after swimming. Water not only removes the protective layer of cream but also reflects sunlight, which can intensify its effects on fragile skin. Choose a baby-specific SPF 50+ formula with high protection and minimal additives.

Avoid peak sun hours

Between 11 AM and 4 PM, the sun’s rays are at their strongest. It’s best to keep babies (and adults) out of direct sunlight during these hours.

Choose shade and sun-protective accessories

Keep little ones in the shade as much as possible to prevent heatstroke and sunburns. If you're at the beach or by the pool, bring a parasol. Equip your baby with sunglasses, a wide-brimmed hat, and a light cotton t-shirt to cover sensitive areas. And remember: it’s better to place your baby on a towel rather than directly on the sand, which reflects UV rays and can intensify sun exposure.

Prevent dehydration

Another summer risk for babies is dehydration. In hot weather, it’s crucial to offer water regularly, even in small amounts, especially if they’re not yet able to ask for it.

What to do in case of sunburn?

If the worst happens and your baby gets sunburned, act quickly. Young children are especially vulnerable because their “sun capital” is still being built. Repeated sun exposure in early life increases the risk of skin cancer, and even a mild sunburn can cause dehydration in babies.