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The Best Sunscreen for Babies and Tots
Posted by admin
Your baby may look adorable with his cheeks all rosy but are you sure that they are the natural red you want to see? Make sure that glow is a sign that your child is healthy and not something that’s caused by sun damage. Sunlight can trigger a lot of changes in the skin and babies and tots are not excused from the heat of the sun. The dangers of the sun’s Ultra Violet Rays are harmful on both adults and babies alike. You will definitely need the best sunscreen to protect your baby as much as you need one yourself.
It is advised to keep babies out of the sun but sometimes it is not possible especially since parents want to spend most of the time with their kids both indoors or outdoors, babies love the outdoors as well! With your baby’s protection in mind, you are now faced with the task of finding the right sunscreen for him or her.
Choosing the Best Baby Sunscreen
Luckily, there are sun protection creams or lotions which are made especially for babies. These sunscreens are chemical free and will not cause any skin irritation or allergic reaction to baby’s skin. The active substances are zinc oxide and titanium dioxide which serves as barriers against the sun’s UV radiation. Unlike chemical sunscreens which need to be applied at least 30 minutes before going out of the sun, zinc oxide and titanium dioxide sunscreens start protecting as soon as they are applied.
Look for a sunscreen that is labeled “broad spectrum” as this will mean that it has ingredients that can protect your baby’s skin from the two types of UV rays, the UVA and the UVB rays. Actually, any sunscreen with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide can already to this. Check the SPF or Sun Protection Factor label as well. For babies, it should be at least SPF 15. More SPF’s mean more protection but it also entails a higher dose of unwanted chemicals penetrating baby’s skin.
Applying Baby Sunscreen
Babies under six months old should not be exposed to the sun as much as possible. Until recently, sunblocks were not recommended to be used in babies below six months old. The American Academy of Pediatrics now recommends the use of sunscreen for infants especially when inadequate clothing and shade is not available. Just make sure to be very careful when slathering cream on baby’s body apply carefully in the face avoiding the eyes. Always test the sunscreen on baby’s back to check for any reaction or irritation. If a rash develops, stop the use of sunblocks and consult your pediatrician.
If everything looks good and baby shows no reaction to sunscreen, apply enough of the cream or lotion or as recommended by the manufacturer. Do not apply less of what is recommended as it will provide less sun protection. Remember to reapply after every two hours or more as necessary.
Precaution is always better than cure. Keep your babies or tots protected from the harmful rays of the sun by applying the best sunscreen for babies. They deserve all the care you can give them.