Sun Safety Essentials
It’s a gorgeous, sunny day, the ideal weather for heading out with your little bundle of joy. While you’re packing that diaper bag, though, just make sure to take a few sun and heat precautions for your baby, suggests pediatric experts.
Babies are at special risk of sun and heat trouble for a number of reasons. “Sunburn, fever and dehydration are the major risks for sun overexposure in children,” explains Dr. Henry Ukpeh, a pediatrician in Trail, BC. “This happens rather quickly because children, especially those less than six months of life, sweat poorly.” Babies also have more skin area relative to their body mass, and thinner, sensitive skin that traps heat and burns more easily. And while exposing your baby to sunlight is one way to ensure he gets enough vitamin D, sunscreen prevents the skin from making it, so ask your doctor about supplemental forms of vitamin D.
Corrie Fletcher, a Halifax mom of 8-month-old Lyla, and two-year-old Duke says she worries about sun exposure a lot since her family is so fair. “I have a bottle of SPF 50 always within reach,” she says. Mom’s right, there’s no need to stay cooped up indoors—just soak up these expert tips first to keep your baby cool and comfy.
1. Take cover when you can
Sun avoidance is the best means of protection, especially for those too young for sunscreen (under six months). That means sticking to early morning and late afternoon or evening strolls when the sun isn’t as strong. “Use strollers, umbrellas, hats with a wide brim, and long, loose clothing whenever possible,” suggests Dr. Miriam Weinstein, a pediatric dermatologist at The Hospital for Sick Children in Toronto.
2. Beware the heat
Even in the shade, there’s the risk of heat damage, such as heat rash. Heat rash (or ‘prickly heat’) is when little red bumps appear on the skin from more heat and moisture than baby skin can handle; it shows up in skin folds and wherever clothing fits snugly. Heat rash can also go hand in hand with dehydration, says Dr. Ukpeh. Removing excess and sweaty clothing can provide relief and help the rash heal.
3. Look for warning signs
“Watch for unexplained fussiness, fewer (or not as) wet diapers, flushed face, sweating, and the need to feed more often (signaling increased thirst),” says Dr. Danielle Grenier, Medical Affairs Director for the Canadian Paediatric Society, and a community pediatrician in Gatineau, Que. Heavy sweating, tiredness, weakness, nausea or vomiting are warning signs that your baby has heat exhaustion—don’t wait for it to go this far.
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