Offered by: Carrie Albert-Martin M.D. – Premier Pediatrics
A quick refresher on sun safety and sunscreen use for the summer:
- Keep babies who are under 6 months old out of direct sunlight, as sunscreen is not generally recommended at this age. Use an umbrella or stroller canopy. Lightweight clothing that covers the arms and legs, and hats with brims are also helpful.
- For children who are older than 6 months, apply sunscreen to all skin that is not covered by clothing. Reapply sunscreen every 2 hours or after swimming or sweating.
- Keep children in the shade whenever possible, especially between the peak sun hours of 10 am to 4 pm.
- If your child has a sunburn that is blistering, causing a fever, or severe pain, contact your pediatrician. Other important sunscreen tips to consider:
- Choose a “broad-spectrum” sunscreen- this covers both UVA and UVB rays.
- Choose a water-resistant sunscreen.
- Zinc oxide can be used as extra protection on shoulders, nose, and ear tips.
- Use a SPF of at least 15. For sunscreens higher than SPF 50, there is no significant additional benefit.
- Apply sunscreen 30 minutes before sun exposure.
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