How To Protect a Baby From the Sun

Choose a sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher. It should be PABA-free and labeled “broad-spectrum,” meaning it protects against UVA and UVB rays. Before applying, dab a tiny bit on your baby’s arm to make sure it doesn’t irritate her skin.

Thirty minutes before heading outside, apply sunscreen generously over your baby’s entire body. Don’t miss her ears, nose, lips, scalp, and the bottoms of her feet. If sunscreen gets on her hands, wash them immediately so she doesn’t rub it in her eyes. End with a sunscreen lip balm.

Dress your baby in lightweight clothing that covers as much of her body as possible without making her too hot. Dark colors and fabrics with a tight weave block rays better than light-colored fabrics that you can see through.

Top your baby’s noggin with a wide-brimmed hat. Choose one that ties under the chin, and double-knot it so she won’t be able to pull it off.

Shield her eyes with a pair of shades that are just her size. Make sure they provide 100% UVA protection.

Once you’re outside, stay in the shade as much as possible. Set up an umbrella on the beach. Have your picnic under a tree.

Reapply your baby’s sunscreen every two hours, or after she gets wet. She might not like it, but a little wrangling now is better than a lot of wrinkling later.