Sunscreen, sunscreen, sunscreen—it’s the golden rule of protecting our little ones from harmful sun rays. But how much is enough? We want our babies to enjoy the outdoors without worrying about sunburns, but we also don’t want to slather them in sunscreen like they’re going to the beach in Antarctica. Here’s how to find the right balance.
Sunscreen Is Powerful
When it comes to sunscreen for your baby, a little goes a long way. The general recommendation is to apply a generous amount of sunscreen to cover all exposed areas of your baby’s skin. Think of it as giving them a protective shield against those powerful UV rays.
The Recommended Amount
But what exactly does “generous amount” mean? It’s estimated that a baby needs about a teaspoon (5 milliliters) of sunscreen for the face and an equivalent amount for each arm and leg. If your little one is wearing a bathing suit, don’t forget to apply sunscreen to those tiny backs, tummies, and even the tops of their little feet.
Timing It Right
Keep in mind that sunscreen should be applied at least 15-30 minutes before heading outdoors to allow it to fully absorb into the skin. And don’t forget to reapply every two hours, especially if your baby has been swimming or sweating.