Our tips for protecting your baby from the sun
The holidays are approaching and you’re thinking of going to the beach. But is this a good idea for your baby, who is still so small and fragile? The answer is yes! The fresh air, the sound of the waves, the sand, the scenery… all exciting stimuli. But whether it’s your first trip to the beach or your favorite weekend outing, think about protecting your baby from the sun.
In this article, we’ll go over some practical tips to help protect your child from the sun.
Understanding the risk
Do you remember your last sunburn? If so, then you know that our sunshine produces more than just a pretty tan. UV rays are harmful to adults if exposed for long periods of time, so think about the delicate skin of newborns. Babies’ skin is very soft, but it is also thinner and more fragile than adults’ skin. It is therefore mechanically much more vulnerable to the harmful effects of the sun. A sunburn can be very painful and cause blistering. Sunburn can also increase the risk of skin cancer later in life. In short, it’s no coincidence that it’s recommended that babies not be exposed to the sun before the age of one (some pediatricians even recommend 3 years)! Add to that the risks of dehydration, sunstroke or those for children’s sensitive eyes and you will understand that it is therefore imperative to protect them from the sun, especially when going to the beach.
The perfect outfit
Let’s start with the fashion show. When going to the beach with your baby, it’s important to dress him or her in clothes that protect them from the sun and keep them cool. Choose light, loose-fitting clothes that cover your baby’s arms and legs to allow air to circulate. As you’ve already discovered, light colors are less warm. Choose them made from soft, breathable materials. And finally, make sure you also cover your baby’s head with a wide-brimmed hat for face and neck protection.
Staying in the shade
Ah, the beach, the sand, the sunbathing and napping in the sun! Except for your child, who should not be exposed to direct sunlight. First of all, avoid going out during the hottest hours of the day, when the sun’s rays are strongest and most dangerous for your baby’s skin. That means before 11 a.m. and after 5 p.m. Try to find a shady spot for your baby, and if there isn’t one, consider bringing your umbrella. If you don’t have one, be creative, a large umbrella or a makeshift beach tent made from a towel stitched onto four pieces of wood will also do the trick. Note that the tips in this paragraph are also valid for you.
The best of the best
It’s time to put your baby in toast mode. Apply a special baby sunscreen generously and evenly before heading to the beach. The sunscreen should have an SPF of at least 50 and be water resistant.
Apply it about 30 minutes before going out so your baby’s skin can absorb it. Remember to reapply the cream every two hours and after every swim. To ensure long-lasting protection, avoid sunscreens that are not formulated for babies. And since we’re taking our own advice, Biolane has come up with a highly protective, water-resistant sun cream. We have even designed it to be ocean-friendly!
Sunglasses on the nose
But who’s that baby trying to sneak by? Because they are particularly sensitive to UV rays, it is important to protect your baby’s eyes. It’s not rocket science: there are pairs of sunglasses designed especially for babies. In addition to being too cute, they block UV rays and also help protect your baby’s eyes from sand and wind, which can cause eye irritation. Stylish and practical!
Drink up!
A common sense paragraph: the heat can dehydrate your baby quickly, so it’s important to make sure she stays hydrated throughout the day. Bring enough water with you for your baby and give him or her regular drinks. Avoid sugary drinks and fruit juices that are not as hydrating as water. If your baby is breastfeeding, be sure to breastfeed regularly, but if you do, remember to stay well hydrated too.
Rinse
Your baby’s first dip in the salty sea – what an adventure! Except that salt not only dries out the skin and causes irritation, it can also amplify the harmful effects of UV rays, increasing the risk of sunburn. Rinsing with clear water after swimming in the ocean is essential to protect your baby’s skin. Then, dry off well and reapply sunscreen if you’re staying on the page. And when you come back home, don’t hesitate to apply an after-sun lotion on his skin. The one developed by Biolane moisturizes, soothes and protects the sensitive skin of our babies and young children after sun exposure.
Stay on the lookout
Even if you take every precaution to protect your baby, it’s important to watch for signs of sunburn. Common signs of sunburn include red, hot and painful skin. If your baby shows these signs, move him or her out of the sun immediately and give them something to drink. Once you get home and shower, apply an after-sun cream or aloe vera gel to help soothe and protect the injured skin. A washcloth with cold (but not ice-cold) water or a warm bath are also good remedies for pain.
And for the next few days, stay out of the sun and make sure you keep your skin well moisturized every night!
All this to say that babies are much more sensitive to the sun than us adults and that it is essential to protect them well. The health of their skin and their well-being depend on it. But don’t stress, it’s not rocket science: light and covering clothes, sunglasses, sunscreen, water, no going out during the hottest hours of the day and regular hydration of your baby to avoid the risks linked to sun exposure.
With these practical tips, you can enjoy the beach safely and focus on creating lasting memories.
