Babies And Children: When To Start Using Sunscreen?
Both in the summer and at other times of the year, the sun’s rays can be very harmful to the skin of adults and babies. However, we can mitigate and prevent its effects with the use of certain products. Starting to use sunscreen, when appropriate, is a care that should be considered.
Outdoor activities with children are an excellent alternative for parents to share with them. However, there are certain cautions that must be taken into account ; Of course, those related to exposure to weather conditions are included.
Logically, the elementary measures are to avoid exposure to the sun, especially at times of greatest intensity, and the use of fresh clothing so that your skin is not in direct exposure to the sun’s rays. Likewise, it is advisable to keep your head protected.
In addition, the use of creams appropriate for the child’s age is always advised. On this point many parents have doubts: When to start using sunscreen with babies?
At what age should you start using sunscreen?
Earlier, we discussed times when sun exposure should be restricted. For adults, the time of greatest risk is between 12 and 16. However, in babies under 6 months, it could be extended by one more hour, both in the minimum and the maximum.
Precisely, for babies of this age, there is a fundamental aspect of creams that we must consider: their composition. There are some that are called ‘chemical filter’, which are what we adults normally use.
Due to their components, chemical filters are not recommended for the delicate skin of babies. They could cause allergic reactions or irritation, caused by intolerance to them.
On the other hand, the ‘physical filter’ can be used. The difference is that these are not absorbed, so they are less likely to cause skin problems. Its whitish tone, although it may be annoying for children, is an indicator; If it disappears, it is time to reapply protector.
Anyway, we recommend its use for those occasions in which there is no alternative; If sun exposure can be avoided, it will always be the best option. With this simple but elementary preventive measure, you will avoid all kinds of problems such as burns or heat stroke.
Sunscreens for babies over 6 months
Although there are products on the market to start using sunscreen with babies over half a year of age, it is not the best of alternatives either. Again, the presence of substances such as paraben can be counterproductive to the child’s health, as can fragrances.
On the other hand, creams that have ingredients such as omega 3 are positive. Other substances that have flattering effects are zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, especially for the most sensitive parts, such as the face and ears.
In addition, the fact of looking for the best protection for their babies makes mothers smear them with these products; the result, far from being expected, is actually the opposite, since there will be greater absorption of potentially harmful substances.
From the age of 3 it is safe to use sunscreen
Most sunscreens – unless otherwise specified by the manufacturer – are suitable for children over 3 years of age. At this age, your skin has greater resistance and is more prepared to assimilate these substances, as well as to protect itself from ultraviolet rays.
These days, the child will be able to move on his own, as a consequence, it will be much more difficult to keep him still and protected. So using sunscreen is essential in taking good care of your health. However, the recommendations regarding the hours of greatest danger remain firm.
Tips for using sunscreen
If you are going to start using these products on your little one, the following suggestions could be very helpful:
- Apply only one coat, especially to arms, feet, and face; in case he is not dressed – for example, at the beach or the pool – also put him on the body.
- Use it about 30 minutes before your child is out in the sun.
- Renew your application after each dip; most protectants are diluted with water.
- Reapply after 2 hours, even if the child did not get in the water.
Regarding the factor, it is best to always resort to the maximum, which is 50. If you have made a consultation with the pediatrician and were able to consult him on this matter, follow his instructions without exception.
Keep in mind that children are more exposed than adults to factors such as the sun, cold or heat. Therefore, taking precautions, such as starting to use sunscreen, will not hurt, as long as they are of the necessary age and the product is suitable.
