Sunscreen for infants

The general recommendation is to try to minimize sun exposure and the need for sunscreen in children under 6 months of age. I do realize that sometimes, some sun exposure is unavoidable. What to do then?

[As an aside, my niece was born in Hawaii and in spite of my sister's attempt to limit her early sun exposure, she was the tannest baby I have ever seen! Tourists complimented my sister on her child's tan. I actually couldn't show pics of her at work because my colleagues (other dermatologists) would have viewed her tan as almost the equivalent of child abuse!!]

For children under 6 months of age, I would rely most heavily on hats and sun protective clothing (like swim suits, swim shirts, rompers, etc...) and provide shade as well. The websites Coolibar and SunPrecautions (see links on the right) have great infant and toddler swim rompers. Coolibar especially has some adorable ones! Another website I recently discovered with a good selection of infant and children's sun protective clothing is Alex and Me Company (http://www.alexandme.com/).

I recommend using only sunscreens with the active ingredients zinc oxide and/or titanium dioxide. Read labels! Some products labeled "baby" rely on chemical sunscreen ingredients that I would avoid in children under 6 months of age. Some products I like that are available widely include:

Aveeno Natural Protection and Aveeno Baby Natural Protection SPF 30 Sunscreens
Blue Lizard Sunscreen in both Sensitive and Baby versions SPF 30
Neutrogena Pure and Free Baby Sunblock Stick and Sunblock Lotion SPF 60
California Baby No Fragrance Sunscreen SPF 30
Vanicream Sunscreen for Sensitive Skin SPF 30

Pricier products are not necessarily better. I like knock-off brands and drug store brands too! Again, find one you like and stick with it. The main thing is to use it daily to all sun-exposed areas.

For more detailed information, view my longer post Sunscreen 101.