Ask Our Expert - Sunscreen for Young Babies

October 07, 2008

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Ask Dr. Jana Sunscreen for Young Babies

QUESTION


Dear Dr. Jana, Is it safe to put sunscreen on my three-month-old? — Jo Anna

ANSWER	June 15, 2001


Dear Jo Anna, Up until recently, the American Academy of Pediatrics did not recommend the use of sunscreen for infants under the age of six months. However, according to their revised recommendations (made in August of 1999), you can use small (or minimal) amounts of sunscreen on your infant in limited areas such as the face and the back of the hands. That said, the ideal approach to protecting your baby from the sun is to keep her in the shade whenever possible. When you will be out in the sun, dress her in cool, lightweight clothing that at the same time covers her skin and use a wide brimmed hat. And while you're at it, remember to protect her eyes from the sun as well. Believe it or not, sunglasses (that block at least 99 percent of the sun's harmful rays) are often available for infants as well as older children! — by Laura Jana, M.D., F.A.A.P.

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