Key takeaways: Keep babies under 6 months out of direct sun, using shade and protective clothing. Sunscreen can be used on small areas of younger babies’ skin when shade isn’t available, and broadly on babies 6 months and older. A sunburn in a baby under 1 year should prompt a call to the doctor. Cool compresses, fluids, and pain relief help mild burns.
A baby’s skin is thin and burns quickly. Prevention is key.
Preventing Sunburn
Under 6 months:
- Keep out of direct sunlight.
- Use shade, stroller canopies, and umbrellas.
- Dress in lightweight long sleeves, pants, and a wide-brimmed hat.
- If shade isn’t possible, the AAP says a small amount of sunscreen (SPF 15 or higher) on small areas like the face and backs of hands is okay.
6 months and older:
- Use broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher. Mineral sunscreens (zinc oxide, titanium dioxide) may be less irritating.
- Apply 15 to 30 minutes before going out, and reapply every 2 hours and after swimming or sweating.
- Keep using shade, clothing, and hats.
- Avoid peak sun hours (about 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.).
Remember: clouds don’t block UV rays, and water, sand, and snow reflect sunlight.
From the author
From First Breath to First Birthday is my month-by-month guide to your baby’s first year, written as a NICU and postpartum nurse. My book covers common first-year illnesses and the warning signs that mean it’s time to call the doctor, explained the way I’d explain them at the bedside.
Signs of Sunburn
- Red, warm, tender skin.
- Blistering in more severe burns.
- Fussiness.
Caring for a Mild Sunburn
- Get out of the sun.
- Cool compresses or a cool bath.
- Extra fluids (breast milk or formula).
- Pain relief: ask your doctor about acetaminophen or ibuprofen (6 months and older).
- Don’t pop blisters.
- Avoid sun until healed.
Call your baby’s doctor if: your baby is under 1 year and has any sunburn, has blisters, fever, chills, headache, unusual sleepiness, or signs of dehydration.
The Bottom Line
Prevent sunburn with shade, clothing, and age-appropriate sunscreen. Call the doctor for any sunburn in a baby under 1.
Want more support for your baby’s first year? My book, From First Breath to First Birthday, is available on Amazon.
Related Articles
- Outdoor Play With Babies
- Burns: First Aid for Babies
- How to Dress Your Baby for Sleep and Weather (Without Overheating)
- Insect Bites and Stings in Babies
Sources
- American Academy of Pediatrics. Sun safety: information for parents about sunburn and sunscreen. HealthyChildren.org. https://www.healthychildren.org
- Council on Environmental Health and Section on Dermatology. Ultraviolet radiation: a hazard to children and adolescents. Pediatrics. 2011;127(3):588-597.
- American Academy of Dermatology. Sunscreen FAQs; how to protect your baby from the sun. https://www.aad.org
This article is for general education and is not a substitute for individualized medical advice. Always talk with your baby’s health care provider or your own provider about your specific situation. If you think your baby or you may have a medical emergency, call 911.
