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Baby sun safety for the 4th of July in Boston
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Many moms and dads have plans to participate in outdoor activities in Boston with their children this Saturday, for the 4th of July. So far, the weather forecast calls for sunny weather, so for moms of infants, it is important to remember to protect baby's sensitive skin against the harsh UV rays of the New England sun. Take the following tips to keep your baby safe and sunburn-free this 4th of July (and beyond).
A Little Sun Goes a Long Way
Your infant's skin is thinner than yours, and has undeveloped melanin, which means that even a little bit of sun exposure can cause them to burn. Even if you are simply taking your baby out for a walk or to sit in the backyard, be just as careful as if you were hitting the beach. Even on a cloudy day, UV rays come through and put your baby in danger of a sunburn, so don't think just because the sun isn't shining brightly, that there is no need for sun safety.
In general, the sun is hottest and brightest (and most likely to cause damage) between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., so avoiding long periods of exposure during this time can help prevent sunburns or heat illnesses; however, before and after this time period, precautions still must be taken.
Under 6 Months--Cover Them Up!
It is not recommended to put sunscreen on babies under 6 months of age, so dress your infant in lightweight long pants and a longsleeved shirt to keep the sun off their sensitive skin. This is also good advice for older babies, although you can use sunscreen on them as well. Keeping your baby in the shade is the best advice, preferably under an umbrella or in a that promises 100% UV protection. Getting your baby accustomed at a young age to wearing a wide brimmed hat and sunglasses while in the sun is also an excellent idea. Find an infant hat and pair of glasses that are labeled "100% UV Protection" and get them used to wearing them every time you go outdoors. It's a habit that they will thank you for later.
Don't Skimp on the Sunscreen!
As soon as your baby reaches 6 months old, it is indicated and recommended to begin using sunscreen whenever your child is to be outdoors for any extended period of time. This includes simply playing in the backyard or going to the park. Be sure to choose a sunscreen that states it is safe for babies and that boasts an SPF protection of 15 or greater. Before use, try a small amount on a patch of skin to watch for an allergic reaction. If your child does not react within the next 24 hours, it is safe to use. Apply it generously when going outdoors; slather it on any areas that may become exposed a half hour before going outdoors, and then re-apply it every two hours or so, being careful to not get in their eyes. If your baby will be swimming or getting wet at all, use a sunscreen that is waterproof so they will be sufficiently protected while in the water. Even when using waterproof sunscreen, it is still a good idea to reapply after swimming or sweating profusely. You can't be too careful!
No Sun is Safe Sun
As much as a little tanned, bronzed baby may look healthy and cute, even tanning is a sign of sun damage. Keep your baby properly protected so they do not burn or tan, and the chances of skin damage later in life will be greatly diminished. Teaching your child from a young age to keep themselves protected prepares them for a lifetime of undamaged skin and a healthy relationship with the sun. Also, being a good role model is important for determining how sun savvy your baby will be as he or she grows up. If they see you putting on sunscreen and avoiding the tanning booth, they are much more likely to follow suit.
(Don’t) Feel the Burn
If your baby does become sunburned, there are a few things you can do to minimize the discomfort and the lasting damage it could cause. Here are a few suggestions:
• Keep baby in the shade until the burn is healed; further exposure to the sun can aggravate the symptoms and make the burn worse.
• Give baby a cool (not cold) bath or gently apply a cool, wet towel to the affected areas.
• Apply pure aloe vera gel to the sunburned skin. This can be purchased at any pharmacy or retail store.
• Administer the proper dosage of a pain killer such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen for babies over 3 months old. If you are unsure of the appropriate dosage, contact your baby's pediatrician.
• Apply a moisturizer safe for babies to rehydrate the skin and reduce swelling associated with sunburn.
If blisters develop, call the doctor immediately and try to keep your baby from touching the blisters so they don't pop; sunburn blisters can become very easily infected.
More Than a Sunburn?
If your baby is presenting with unusual symptoms along with their sunburn, it is possible that they have something more serious, such as sun syncope, heat exhaustion or heat stroke. These conditions occur when babies become overheated and dehydrated, and are very serious and demand medical attention immediately. Call the doctor right away if any of the following symptoms are present:
• An unexplained fever of 102ºF or higher
• The sunburn looks infected (the presence of pus or extreme redness and swelling)
• Baby has trouble looking at the light
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Baby seems out of sorts
Following these guidelines for sun safety will ensure that your baby can enjoy the outdoors this 4th of July and still be protected from the dangers of the sun. Starting these habits at a very young age also increases the chances that your child will cooperate later as they develop into headstrong, independent toddlers.
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