The sun is shining so of course you want to go out and enjoy it with your baby. But while she is tiny, it’s best to keep her out of the sun. When she’s six months or older and wanting to crawl and play outside, do look after her delicate skin with a sun hat and sunscreen. You may prefer to keep her in the shade when the sun is at its hottest between 11am and 3pm.
What sort of sunscreen should I use on my baby?
It’s best to use lotions or sprays specially formulated specially for babies and children.

Choose a sunscreen with an SPF (sun protection factor) of at least 15. Also make sure the sunscreen is a broad-spectrum brand with a four- or five-star rating. This means it offers UVA and UVB protection, which will be stated on the packaging.

Do apply sunscreen thickly to every area of your baby’s skin not covered by clothes or a hat, including her hands and feet. You’ll need a plum-sized dollop of sunscreen, probably far more than you’d expect. Put it on half an hour before she goes outdoors. Reapply at least every couple of hours and after she has played in water, even if it’s waterproof.

Some brands make tinted sun creams, which makes it easy to see if you have missed a bit.

How can I keep the sun off my baby’s skin?
Try to keep your baby in the shade as much as possible, under trees, an umbrella, a canopy or sun tent.

If your baby isn’t mobile yet, she will be happy to lie and kick in the shade. If your baby is crawling or walking, encourage her to sit and play in the shade if it’s very hot.

Keep her skin covered with clothes made from lightweight closely woven fabric, such as cotton.

Also put your baby in a wide brimmed hat which shades her face, ears and neck. One with an elastic strap that tucks under her chin will stop it coming off.

When you are out and about with your baby, make sure her pram or pushchair has a sun canopy, sun hood or umbrella. Adjust it regularly to make sure she remains shaded.