We will be having a vacation to the Philippines this month and my family has been warning me of the very hot weather there especially now that it’s summer. I was thinking of ways to protect Georyl from the heat when I came across an article that really aroused my interest.
Do you know that sunscreens are not recommended to be used on babies under six months of age? There are no evidence that suggests that sunscreens are harmful to infants. It’s just that the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) believes that there is no compelling reason for infants less than 6 months to have sun exposure prolonged enough to require sunscreens because babies younger than 6 months are not mobile and will not be exposed to the sun unless placed there.
The AAP advices that to protect babies under 6 months of age from the sun, you should not place them under direct sunlight. Move them to the shade under a tree, umbrella or stroller canopy. The AAP also recommends dressing babies in lightweight clothes that will cover their arms and legs when going out. Also use brimmed hats that shade the neck to prevent sunburn.
What if sun exposure is unavoidable? In this case, you can apply a minimal amount of sunscreen to small areas such as the face and the back of hands. Be sure, however, that the product has at least 15 SPF (sun protection factor). If an infant gets sunburn, apply cold compresses to the affected area.
well… u’re right.. not good for babies,. 🙂
That make good sense, not having young ones with sensitive skin exposed; but I fear people will do it anyway and should be encouraged to use sun screen.
Just got back from a week of 90+ degrees in Southern California in Palm Desert and area. Not a day went by at the pool that I didn’t see wee ones. So, not only were they exposed to the sun in those extreme temperatures but they had the added exposure of the sun’s reflection on the water. Though many were out for several hours, it did appear most had on hats and were in little floaty things with canopies. Sun rays do though come through canopies and light weight clothing. People just need to put aside they want for a good tan with what’s good for the baby and minimize time out. Or better yet, don’t take babies to these locations. Save those vacation spots for later when the child is older.
Interesting post, hadn’t heard this statement before.
Sandy