Sun Safety

Getting out and enjoying fresh air and sunshine makes everyone feel good but it is easy to underestimate the strength and power of the sun. Protecting your children’s skin now is an investment in their future health.

Babies under the age of 6 months should not be out in the sun but rather kept in the shade. There are currently no sun protection creams recommended for babies under the age of 6 months.

Knowing which cream to use on an older baby or child can be confusing so here are some tips.

• Make sure you use one that is designed for their skin and has a 5 star UVA and UVB rating as well as an SPF of 30 as a minimum.
• Use babies sun cream from 6 months to 18 months.
• Use children’s sun cream from 18 months upwards.
• Water resistant cream is better because it is less likely to wash or sweat off.
• Sun cream should be applied 30 minutes before going out into the sun and should then be generously reapplied every 2 hours or after swimming (even if it is water resistant).
• A small child would need approximately a golf ball size of sun cream to properly cover their body.
• Remember, most sun creams have a shelf life maximum of 2 years.
• The sun is at its hottest between 11am and 3pm so between these times it is a good idea to seek shade and to cover up using loose fitting light clothing.
• It is advisable to wear a hat that protects the head and ears and provides shade for the face.