Baby Sunblock

If you protect yourself from the sun, odds are you don’t overlook the fact that your baby needs to use sunblock as well.  Dermatologists advise that daily protection with sunblock starting when the infant reaches six months of age.

Of course, consult your physician before anything, but you can use this information as a general checklist to revert back to should you have any questions about sunblock and your children.

*Cover exposed areas first, and don’t waste sunblock by over-applying it on an infant.  Keep in mind their bodies do not perspire as much as ours and it’s more difficult for them to cool down with a thick coat of sunblock on their skin.

* Always use SPF 25 or higher on children.

* Do a “patch test” on your baby before relying on the product. Apply a small amount to the skin and let it absorb in order to gauge any irritation.

* Allow the sunblock to absorb thirty minutes before entering the sun.

* If given the option, choose a waterproof sunblock and re-apply every two hours.

*Always use a sunblock formulated for a baby if given the option.

* Always keep children hydrated when they are exposed to the sun.  Not even the best sunblock can keep a child or anyone from being dehydrated and sunburnt.