sun safety

Your baby's skin is extremely delicate and needs protecting from the sun's harmful rays. You can still enjoy the sunshine by taking simple steps to keep your baby safe and healthy.
When it comes to your baby, the advice is simple. Babies under the age of six months should be kept out of the sun altogether, as their skin is not yet able to produce enough melanin to protect them from UV light. The best way to protect very little ones is to keep them in the shade (an old-fashioned parasol or sun canopy works best) and cover them up with loose clothing and, of course, hats.
When it comes to protecting your baby's
tender skin, a certain amount of common
sense goes a long way.
Use sunscreen as a last line of defence on any of your baby's skin that is exposed to the sun. Choose sunscreens that are formulated specifically for babies' delicate skin as these are less likely to contain alcohol or fragrances that might irritate their skin and cause allergic reactions. Opt for the highest SPF factor possible (always a minimum of SPF15) and choose a "broad-spectrum" brand that has a four or five-star rating. Apply liberally and regularly to areas that can't be protected by clothing, such as the face, ears, feet and backs of hands.
The sun is at its hottest between 11am and 3pm
- the perfect excuse for you and your little one
to retreat and enjoy a long, shady lunch.
Sand and water can intensify the sun's rays, so protecting children's eyes from an early age. It may seem absurd to put a pair of sunglasses on a baby or toddler, but people who are exposed to high levels of sunlight are up to four times more likely to develop cataracts. Buy baby sunglasses with UVB/UVA protection, and try to get ones that are shatterproof! For outdoor fun in the garden or family outings to the seaside, invest in a UV play shade or mini-tents: they provide good shelter if no other shade is available.
Necks and ears are vulnerable areas, so opt
for hats that cover the back of the neck.
The dos and don'ts if your baby's skin does suffer from overexposure to the sun
DO make sure your baby or child isn't dehydrated by giving him plenty of fluids to drink.
DO consult your doctor if the child develops blisters: this would indicate a more serious burn. Similarly, if your baby develops a fever, starts to vomit or loses consciousness, get help straight away.
DON'T use petroleum based emollients (e.g. Vaseline) on the affected area, as they trap heat and sweat and can actually make things worse. Also, avoid burn sprays, as babies and young children can be allergic to these. Once the skin starts to heal, calamine lotion, aloe vera gel or a good water-based moisturiser can help relieve itching.
DON'T pop fluid-filled blisters, this could lead to infection. Let your doctor deal with them.
DON'T be alarmed when your baby starts peeling: this is part of the healing process. Just keep him or her cool and out of the sun.

you may also be interested in these products...

J&J Baby Cream SPF 50 75ml£ 10.49
Retractable Car Sunblinds - 2pk£ 7.99
Blue Panelled Keppi£ 7.00