Some time ago we saw the types of photoprotectors that exist, and today we are going to focus on which is the most suitable sunscreen for babies.
We assume that walking a baby a few months under intense sunlight without protection is dangerous due to the sensitive characteristics of his skin. Therefore, we must take precaution, and it is considered essential to wear a protective clothing while cool (hat, shirt with short sleeves ... breathable natural fiber garments), as well as hydrate the child regularly.
Protection factor according to skin type.
Also the photoprotection is very important, more for the small ones of light skin. For children with dark skin, a protection factor of 20 (Mediterranean-type skin) may be sufficient, but for light skin and hair we can reach 40 or 50, in the same way as for red-haired babies with a tendency to have freckles.
This is because, the clearer the baby has the skin, the less melanin it will have to absorb UV rays and protect against the harmful effects of the sun. On the contrary, the darker the skin, the more melanin it will have to protect itself.
Other factors to consider when choosing photoprotector.
Another factor to consider is the area in which we live, it is not the same to live in extreme latitudes with little sun than in places with many hours and very intense sun. Also latitude is important (at higher altitude, greater harmful effect of the sun) and the season of the year in which we are.
Types of photoprotector more suitable.
As for the type of photoprotector, It is best to use creams or lotions, since they are the most moisturizing for the skin of babies and children than other varieties of sunscreen (gels, bars or sprays).
There are many different types of creams for children, including formulations for sensitive skin, or for children somewhat older brands with attractive scents for them such as fruit, or chewing gum ... The long-lasting versions, water and sweat resistant are especially interesting if we are going to be on the beach, pool or exposed to very hot.
But what we really have to look at is the SPF (Sun Protection Factor), also known as IPS (Sun Protection Index), which is the number (20-50) we have referred to above. And do not forget to replenish the cream application every so often.
Sun protection for all babies?
Although we must remember that not all specialists agree on whether to put sunscreen on babies under six months, since they believe that at that age creams can cause skin irritations, we will consult our doctor and be very cautious with the sun if we advise against the use of photoprotection cream. Also remember that you should always try the sunscreen cream briefly in a specific strip of the baby's skin to see if there is an allergic reaction.
In any case, consider the recommendation that these products do not contain PABA and follow our common sense when it comes to exposing the little ones to the most intense sun and the hottest hours for long periods of time, something to avoid until Let the children grow up.
Finally, we remember that, although we all need to expose ourselves to the sun, since it is our main source of vitamin D, which helps us absorb calcium to have strong and healthy bones, exposing children to the sun without protection is dangerous.
More dangerous if possible for those children with moles (or whose parents are prone to develop moles), light skin and hair, or a family history of skin cancer. So all these tips that we have offered you about the most suitable sun protection for babies they must be especially carefully implemented in such cases.
