What Kind of Sunscreen Should I Use on My Newborn? As a parent, you want to do everything you can to protect your newborn from harm. One of the most important things you can do is to make sure your little one is protected from the sun’s harmful rays. Sunscreen is an important part of any skin care routine, but it can be confusing to know which one is best for your baby’s delicate skin. In this article, we’ll discuss the types of sunscreen that are safe for newborns, how to apply it properly, and other tips for protecting your baby from the sun. Why Sunscreen is Important for Newborns It’s important to protect your newborn’s skin from the sun’s harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays. UV rays can cause sunburns and long-term skin damage, and newborns’ skin is especially sensitive to them. Sunburns can be painful and uncomfortable, and long-term skin damage can lead to premature wrinkles and age spots. Sunscreen is the best way to protect your baby’s skin from the sun’s harmful rays. Types of Sunscreen for Newborns When it comes to choosing sunscreen for your newborn, you’ll want to look for products that are specifically made for babies. These products are formulated to be gentle on delicate skin, and they usually contain fewer ingredients than adult sunscreens. You’ll also want to look for a sunscreen that provides broad-spectrum protection, meaning it will protect against both UVA and UVB rays. You’ll also want to choose a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30. The SPF rating tells you how much protection the sunscreen provides against UVB rays. The higher the number, the more protection the sunscreen offers. There are two main types of sunscreen: chemical and physical. Chemical sunscreens contain chemicals that absorb UV rays and protect the skin from them. Physical sunscreens contain minerals, like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, that reflect UV rays away from the skin. Both types of sunscreen are safe for newborns, but physical sunscreens may be better for babies with sensitive skin, as they don’t contain potentially irritating chemicals. How to Apply Sunscreen on a Newborn When applying sunscreen on your newborn, it’s important to use a gentle touch. Start by applying a thin layer of sunscreen to all exposed areas of skin, including the face, neck, arms, and legs. Make sure to rub it in well so that it’s fully absorbed. It’s also important to reapply sunscreen every two hours, or sooner if your baby gets wet or sweaty. If you’re using a physical sunscreen, you may need to reapply more often, as it can be less effective when it gets wet. Tips for Protecting Newborns from the Sun In addition to using sunscreen, there are a few other things you can do to protect your newborn from the sun. The first is to dress your baby in lightweight, long-sleeved clothing, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses. These will help protect your baby’s skin from the sun’s rays. You should also avoid direct sun exposure during peak hours, which are typically between 10am and 4pm. If you’re going to be outside during these hours, make sure to find a shady spot where your baby can be protected from the sun’s rays. Finally, it’s important to remember that sun protection is about more than just sunscreen. It’s also important to stay hydrated and to make sure your baby is wearing a hat and other sun-protective clothing. Conclusion Sunscreen is an important part of any skin care routine, but it’s especially important for newborns. Their delicate skin is especially sensitive to the sun’s UV rays, and they need extra protection. When choosing a sunscreen for your newborn, look for products that are specifically made for babies and provide broad-spectrum protection with an SPF of at least 30. When applying sunscreen, use a gentle touch and make sure to reapply every two hours. In addition to sunscreen, be sure to dress your baby in protective clothing, avoid direct sun exposure during peak hours, and stay hydrated. With these tips, you can help protect your newborn from the sun’s harmful rays.