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Baby Sun Safety 101: What Every Parent Needs to Know This Summer

  • billyscalls
  • May 28
  • 3 min read

Whether you're planning a beach day, park picnic, or just some time in the backyard, protecting your baby from the sun is essential—especially in those early months. Here's everything you need to know about baby sun protection, sunscreen safety, and must-have sun gear to keep your little one safe and smiling all summer long.


☀️ Can Babies Wear Sunscreen?


Short answer: not before 6 months.

Most pediatricians and organizations like the Mayo Clinic recommend avoiding sunscreen entirely for babies under six months. Their delicate skin absorbs ingredients differently than older children and adults.

So what can you do?

Until your baby reaches 6 months old, your best defense is complete sun avoidance and physical protection. Think:

  • Wide-brim hats

  • Lightweight, long-sleeved clothing

  • Stroller sunshades

  • UPF-rated swimsuits

  • Beach umbrellas or pop-up tents


🧴 What to Know About Baby Sunscreen (After 6 Months)


Once your baby hits the 6-month mark, you can introduce sunscreen—but choose wisely.

The best baby sunscreen is mineral-based (also called physical sunscreen), using zinc oxide or titanium dioxide as active ingredients. These formulas sit on top of the skin and create a protective barrier—without the chemical absorption risks.

Our Top Picks for Baby-Safe Sunscreens:

(Always patch test first!)

🌿 Thinking of Making Your Own Sunscreen?

If you’re into DIY and want control over ingredients, here are a few trusted homemade sunscreen recipes to explore:

⚠️ Note: Always consult with your pediatrician before trying a homemade formula on baby skin.


👶 5 S's of Sun Safety for Babies

To make things simple, here’s a tried-and-true sun safety formula borrowed from Australia’s famous “Slip, Slop, Slap, Seek, Slide” campaign:

1. Slip on a Long-Sleeved Shirt

Look for breathable, UPF-rated clothing that covers arms and legs. The tighter the weave, the better the protection.

2. Slop on Sunscreen (After 6 Months)

Apply baby-safe mineral sunscreen to all exposed skin at least 15 minutes before going outside. Reapply every 2 hours—or sooner if baby gets wet.

3. Slap on a Hat

A wide-brimmed sunhat protects the face, ears, and neck. Look for chin straps or velcro to help it stay put. (Because...babies.)

4. Seek Shade

Stay in shaded areas—especially between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. when the sun is strongest. If there’s no natural shade, bring a tent or umbrella.

5. Slide on Sunglasses

Your baby’s eyes are extra sensitive to UV rays. Choose soft-strap baby sunglasses with 100% UV protection.

👓 Our favorite baby sunglasses:

  • Bib-ON Vintage 100% UV Protection

  • Baby BANZ Ultimate Polarized

  • Julbo Looping I

  • Nacuwa UV-Proof Baby Sunglasses


🧺 Final Summer Safety Tips

Even with sunscreen, protective gear, and shade, there’s no such thing as completely safe prolonged sun exposure for babies. Keep outdoor time short, stay vigilant about reapplying sunscreen, and always pack a hat, extra clothes, and plenty of hydration.

The truth is—no diaper bag is complete without sun safety essentials. If you're building your baby registry or prepping for summer adventures, consider adding:

  • A UPF-rated sunhat

  • Baby-safe sunscreen

  • Clip-on stroller fan

  • Lightweight long-sleeved onesie

  • Pop-up shade tent


🍼 And of course, a safe and comfy diaper changing pad like No More Squirmy Baby—because every outdoor adventure still comes with diaper duty!

 
 
 

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