What to know about sunscreen for babies

The days are warming up and your little one is excited about spending more time outdoors – but pay careful attention to when and how they come into contact with the harsh sun. 

Sun protection is always essential for people of all ages and, whether it’s cloudy outside or you’re spending the day mostly indoors – and the rules of proper sun protection are especially important for your baby or toddler. 

Choosing an age-appropriate sunscreen 

Dr Kiasha Govender, a specialist dermatologist practising in the North Coast in Tongaat and The Dermatology Emporium in Umhlanga, advises parents with young babies to avoid direct sun exposure as much as possible. “For infants under six months, the best protection is avoidance of direct sun exposure rather than sunscreen. Their skin is thinner, more permeable and more vulnerable to irritation from chemicals,” she explains. 

“For toddlers and young children, I recommend a broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher,” says Dr Govender, adding that it should ideally be a mineral-based formula containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. “These sit on the skin’s surface – physically blocking UV rays – and are less likely to cause irritation compared to chemical filters. Choose fragrance-free and hypoallergenic options to minimise skin sensitivity,” she adds. 

Essentials for proper sun safety

Dr Govender says the cornerstone of sun protection is layered prevention, and that sunscreen should always be paired with smart habits, such as:

• Clothing: Lightweight, tightly woven, long-sleeved tops and pants provide excellent protection. Many children’s brands now make UPF-rated fabrics that block UV radiation.

• Hats: A broad-brimmed hat that shades the face, ears and neck is essential.

• Sunglasses: UV-protective sunglasses protect the eyes and surrounding delicate skin.

• Timing: Limit outdoor play during peak sun intensity hours (10 a.m.–3 p.m.), opting instead for early mornings or late afternoons.

• Shade: Use umbrellas, canopies or shaded play areas whenever possible. Also use a sunshield on your baby’s pram. 

Developing a sun-smart routine from early on

Life with a little one can be overwhelming at times with everything on your to-do list. The earlier you develop a routine for sun safety – and get your child used to it – the better it’ll be for your family in the long run. 

“Sun safety in young children is about developing consistent routines – it’s far easier to prevent a burn than to manage the consequences,” says Dr Govender. 

So, what should parents keep in mind when it comes to sticking to a consistent routine? A soon as they’re old enough, start teaching your child about what they need to wear and apply before they can step outside. Even if they won’t physically be dressing themselves in suitable clothing or applying sunscreen to their own body, helping them understand the steps are important in forming a habit.

And while sun protection is very important – and the lack thereof harmful – it doesn’t need to be a scary or overwhelming experience for them.

Dr Govender recommends using age-appropriate ways to involve your little one, which could include games that allow them to help you apply their sunscreen. If they’re too young to be involved, it helps to distract them using books or toys while you get the job done.

The type of sunscreen you choose for your baby or toddler can affect how they experience the application or how they feel when it’s on their skin. Dr Govender says sticks and sprays are easy to use – make sure you apply it to your fingers or hands first and then rub the sunscreen onto your child’s skin. 

Sunprotect Baby Lotion Aloe SPF 50 50ml

Epi‑Max Suncreen Lotion 200ml

Oh‑Lief Natural Sunscreen Baby & Kids Face Stick SPF30 30ml  

Bioderma Photoderm SPF50+ Milk 200ml

Trendlings UPF Sunhat Safari 1‑3 Years

Trendlings Unisex Swimwear Set Ocean 1‑3 Years

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