Damage to our skin begins with our first exposure to sunlight. It builds up year after year. So the exposure we get during childhood increases our chances of skin cancer later in life.

A baby has delicate skin that is thinner and burns more easily than an adult’s skin. Newborn babies, in particular, and babies less than 12 months old should be kept out of the direct sunlight as much as possible.

How can I protect my baby?

Dress your baby in loose outfits that have long sleeves and long pants. Make sure they are made from a close-woven material. When your baby begins to hold up their head, dress them in a soft hat with a flap at the back. When your child is older and can sit unaided, use a hat with a tie under the chin .

Plan outdoor events so that the baby is kept indoors as much as possible between 11am and 3pm. When babies are outdoors, keep them in the shade as much as possible. Use an umbrella to protect your child while they are in their pram or buggy.

Apply sunscreen to small areas of skin that cannot be protected with clothing, such as your baby’s face and hands.

Should I put sunscreen on my baby?

Keep your baby out of the sun and protected with clothes, hats and shade. Then you only need to use sunscreen on the areas of skin that are not protected by clothing. If possible, use a sunscreen that is made especially for babies and children. And always patch test the sunscreen on your baby’s skin before you use it. Some babies may get skin irritation from sunscreen. Always use a sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher with high or ultra high UVA protection or a 4-5 star rating.

This is prepared by and kindly reproduced here by of the Irish Cancer Society. For further please call the Irish Cancer Society Cancer Helpline, Freefone 1800 200 700 (weekdays 9am-5pm).

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