What Can I Do For My Infant <6 Months?

In <6 months, minimize direct and indirect sun exposure. Sensitive skin is common in little ones, which means it’s easier for them to get sunburns or reactions to irritants in skincare products. It's for this reason that we also avoid applying sunscreen all over the body in this age range.

That said, the American Academy of Pediatrics says infant sunscreen is safe to use on small, exposed areas (such as the back of the hands, the feet, the tips of the ears, nose, and face) if shade is unavailable. So if you’re going on a walk on a sunny day, feel free to apply in those spots!

Note: Use bucket hats, lightweight long-sleeved clothing, shade underneath a tree, stroller canopies, shade domes (ensure adequate ventilation and anchoring to the ground), and beach umbrellas to create a covered environment.

When & How Often To Apply Sunscreen?

Apply 15-30 minutes prior to outdoor activities, so it has time to absorb into the skin. It's recommended to reapply every 1.5 - 2 hours, sooner with water exposure. Use a generous amount, even on cloudy days, since UV rays are still creeping through.

Which Sunscreen Should I Choose?

The gist of it is that it should be a mineral (rather than chemical) sunscreen with Zinc Oxide or Titanium Dioxide as a main ingredient, broad-spectrum (UV-A and UV-B ray protection), and at least SPF 30+. Check out detailed recommendations at the end of this article.

*Note: All mineral sunscreens will leave a slight white cast.*

What About Older Infants?

The same rules apply (utilize clothing, hats, and shade when able), with the exception that sunscreen should be applied routinely to the entire body. Any of the mineral sunscreens listed in this article are an excellent option. Just pay close attention to the label (just because a sunscreen says "Baby" or "Infant" doesn't mean that it's a true mineral sunscreen).

Product Recommendations: