Essential Sun Protection Tips for Babies Under 6 Months
Learn how to keep your infant safe from UV rays with shade, UPF50+ clothing, hats, and smart sun habits. A must-read guide for UK parents to prevent baby sunburn and ensure healthy fun in the sun.
Reading Time: 10 minutes
Introduction
There’s nothing more precious than taking your baby out on a sunny day – but while you enjoy the warmth, your baby’s delicate skin needs extra protection. In fact, a recent British Skin Foundation survey found 59% of UK children have been sunburned at least once, a clear sign that many of us need to do more to keep our little ones safe in the sun. Babies are especially vulnerable: their skin is much thinner and has less melanin (the pigment that helps block UV) than adult skin. This means infants can burn faster and more severely than we might expect. And the stakes are high – research shows that just one blistering sunburn in childhood can double the risk of melanoma (the deadliest skin cancer) later in life.
For babies under six months old, the usual sun-care toolbox (like high-SPF sunscreen) isn’t even recommended, so parents often feel unsure how to protect their infant from the sun. The good news is, with a few simple precautions – from clever use of shade to choosing the right clothing – you can safeguard your baby’s skin without ever reaching for a bottle of suncream. This guide will walk you through essential sun protection tips for babies, especially infants under 6 months, with UK-specific advice to help you enjoy those sunny outings safely and confidently.
Why Do Babies Need Extra Sun Protection?
Babies aren’t just tiny adults – their skin and bodies respond very differently to the sun. Here’s why sun safety is so critical for infants:
- Ultra-Sensitive, Thin Skin: A baby’s skin is about 20-30% thinner than an adult’s, and it has very little melanin for natural sun defence. This means UV rays can penetrate and damage those deep skin layers within minutes. Baby skin also loses moisture faster, making it more prone to drying and irritation from sun exposure.
- Serious Sunburn Risk: Because their skin is so sensitive, babies can burn quickly even in mild sun. What might only give an adult a light tan could cause a baby to develop red, painful sunburn. And we’re not just talking discomfort – sunburn in infancy can cause fever, dehydration, or more severe reactions. Worse, UV damage accumulates: studies suggest about 1/4 of our lifetime UV exposure happens before age 20. Early damage sets the stage for skin cancer later. Frequent sun exposure and sunburns in childhood are strongly linked to melanoma in adulthood.
- Heat and Overheating: Sun protection isn’t only about UV rays – it’s also about heat. Babies can’t regulate their body temperature as well as adults. Direct sun and high temperatures put them at risk of heat exhaustion or even heat stroke. Overheating is especially dangerous for infants and has been linked to a higher risk of SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome). That’s why keeping babies cool and shaded is paramount.
- Too Young for Sunscreen: Pediatricians and the NHS advise against using sunscreen on babies under 6 months old. Why? A baby’s higher surface-area-to-body-weight ratio means they could absorb more of the chemicals in suncreams, potentially causing irritation or other effects. Their skin is also more permeable. So, for infants, physical barriers like clothing and shade are the first and best line of defense. (If a tiny bit of skin must be exposed, a small amount of infant-safe sunscreen can be used on those spots as a last resort – but in general, we avoid lotion on under-6-month-olds.)
- They Rely on You Completely: Unlike an older child who might move out of the sun if they feel hot, a young baby can’t roll away from sunlight or tell you they’re burning. It’s up to caregivers to anticipate and shield them from UV. Babies also have no base tan (not that a tan is protective – it isn’t, but adults may have slightly more resistance than brand-new skin). Every minute of a baby’s sun exposure needs your attention and management.
In short, infants are extremely vulnerable to sun damage – but the flip side is that 100% of that damage is preventable with the right measures. (After all, experts estimate 86% of melanoma cases could be prevented by avoiding excessive UV exposure.) By understanding the risks, we can better appreciate why the following sun protection steps for babies are so important.
Sun Safety for Babies Under 6 Months
For newborns and infants up to six months old, the rule of thumb is: no direct sun exposure. Your strategy will revolve around shading, covering, and monitoring. Here are the most important sun safety tips for young babies:
- Stay in the Shade (Avoid Direct Sun): Keep babies out of direct sunlight as much as possible, especially between 11 am and 3 pm when the sun is strongest in the UK. Plan walks in the early morning or late afternoon. Use a pram or pushchair sunshade or clip-on parasol whenever you’re outside. A UV-rated stroller cover or parasol can block direct rays but maintain airflow. (Never drape a regular blanket or muslin over a pram as a sun cover – doing so can trap heat and cause dangerous overheating. The Lullaby Trust recommends against covering prams with blankets; instead use designed sunshades and check the baby’s temperature often by feeling their tummy or back of neck.) Remember that open shade is your best friend – sit under trees, canopies, or a beach umbrella. If you’re in a spot with dappled shade, that’s great for diffusing UV. And don’t forget that UV rays can reflect off surfaces – for example, water, sand, and even concrete can bounce UV back. So even in the shade, keep other protections in place.
- Dress Your Baby in Protective Clothing: Lightweight long-sleeved clothing and long bottoms are essential. Cover as much of their sensitive skin as you comfortably can. A thin cotton onesie or little sundress might look cute, but they don’t offer much UV protection – a typical white cotton t-shirt only provides about SPF 5 worth of protection (blocking ~20% of UV rays). Instead, opt for tightly woven fabrics or special UPF-rated clothing. UPF 50+ baby clothing (like the ones sold by equatorsun) can block 98% of UV rays, without the need for chemical sunscreens. For example, a full-length baby sunsuit (UPF50+) covering arms and legs is perfect for a day at the park or beach. These garments are designed to be breathable and lightweight so your little one doesn’t overheat, and many are chlorine-resistant too (great for a paddling pool or holiday swimming). If you don’t have UPF-specific baby clothes, choose darker or brightly coloured fabrics with a tight weave (hold it up to light – less light coming through means more UV is blocked). And always go for loose-fitting outfits – they’re cooler and actually protect better, since stretched-tight fabric can let more UV through.
- Don’t Forget a Sun Hat: A wide-brimmed hat or legionnaire-style cap (the type with a flap covering the neck) is a must for babies. A hat shades the face, scalp, ears, and neck – all areas that are highly susceptible to burns. The NHS recommends a wide-brim or long flap hat for babies. Look for hats with an elastic or Velcro chin strap (to help it stay on – many babies love to tug hats off!). The brim should be wide enough to cast shade over baby’s face. equatorsun offers adorable UPF50+ infant sun hats that block UV and stay secure during play. Whichever hat you choose, use it consistently so your baby gets used to it as part of their “outdoor routine.” Tip: You can model sun hat wearing – if parents and siblings wear hats, baby is more likely to keep theirs on, too (monkey see, monkey do!).
- No Sunscreen (Unless Absolutely Necessary): As noted, standard sunscreen isn’t recommended for babies under 6 months. Rely on coverage and shade first. If there’s a small area you cannot fully cover (like the backs of hands or cheeks), you may sparingly apply a broad-spectrum SPF 50+ sunscreen formulated for babies to those spots – but check with your paediatrician if possible. The British Association of Dermatologists suggests if no other option, apply high SPF to exposed areas. If you do this, choose a mineral-based suncream (zinc oxide or titanium dioxide) which sits on top of the skin and is less likely to be absorbed or cause irritation on infant skin. But again, consider this a last resort. With good planning, your baby can and should be kept out of direct UV without needing any sun lotion at all in the first six months.
- Keep Baby Cool and Hydrated: Dressing in layers of clothes and being out on a warm day can lead to overheating if you’re not careful. Monitor your baby’s temperature often. Signs of overheating include fussiness, a hot belly or neck when you touch, flushed skin, or fast breathing. If you suspect they’re too warm, move to a cooler spot and remove a layer. Staying well-hydrated helps them regulate heat. Also consider using a clip-on fan for the pram (with safety covers) on very warm days to improve airflow. Remember that shade + hydration + ventilation are key to keeping a baby comfortable. A cool, comfortable baby is a happier (and safer) baby!
- Protect Those Little Eyes: Babies’ eyes are also sensitive to UV light. While many infants won’t tolerate sunglasses, it’s worth a try if you find infant-sized sunglasses with a soft strap. Look for sunglasses that are 100% UVA and UVB protective. If your baby manages to keep them on, you’ve got an extra layer of protection (plus cute photos!). If not, ensure the pram’s canopy shades their face and that they wear that wide hat – a brim can significantly cut UV reaching the eyes. Never leave a baby in direct sun without eye protection, as their developing eyes are very sensitive and let more UV through to the retina than adult eyes do.
By following these steps, you can virtually eliminate the risk of sunburn or heat stress in your infant. Realistically, that might mean sometimes avoiding outings at peak sun hours or ensuring every park visit is to a shady spot under a tree – small adjustments that make a huge difference. Remember, even on cloudy days, UV radiation can be strong (up to 80% of UV rays pass through clouds). So don’t let an overcast sky make you lax about protection – still use the canopy and hat. Your baby’s skin will thank you!
Sun Protection for Older Babies and Toddlers (6–24 months)
Once your baby grows past the 6-month mark, you get one additional tool in the sun protection toolkit: sunscreen is now generally safe to use on them (hooray!). However, that doesn’t mean you should ditch all the other strategies. On the contrary, experts say clothing and shade should remain the first lines of defence, with sunscreen as extra protection. Toddlerhood is also when your little one becomes more mobile – crawling and toddling into sunny spots – so maintaining good habits is key. Here’s how to protect older babies and toddlers:
- Keep Using Hats and UPF Clothing: Make sun-safe clothing non-negotiable from the start, so it just feels normal to your child. Even as they start walking, continue to dress them in lightweight long sleeves, long shorts or trousers, and sun hats for outdoor play. equatorsun’s toddler swimwear and playwear (like a two-piece UPF50+ set or long-sleeve rash guard top) are great for active little ones – they’re stretchy, comfy, and quick-drying. Because only 13% of UK children wear UPF clothing regularly, you’ll be ahead of the curve in protecting your child. Set the routine now: “We put on our sun hat and sun jacket before we go out to play.” Many toddlers will eventually insist on doing it themselves – a win for you!
- Apply Sunscreen (and Reapply Often): For babies 6 months+ and young toddlers, broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 50+ is recommended on any exposed skin. Choose a child-friendly sunscreen (fragrance-free, hypoallergenic – many are labelled “baby” or “kids”). Apply sunscreen about 15 minutes before going outside, even on slightly cloudy days. And here’s the part many forget: reapply at least every 2 hours, or more often if your little one is sweating, playing in water, or being toweled off. Set a timer if needed. If you’re at the beach or pool, it might help to use a long-sleeve swim shirt on your toddler so you have fewer areas to re-smear with suncream – wriggly toddlers aren’t known for patience during sunscreen sessions! Also, don’t neglect spots like the tops of feet, ears, and the back of the neck. A pro-tip: apply sunscreen before you dress your child – it avoids gaps along clothing edges. And remember, sunscreen should be used in addition to (not instead of) hats and clothing. A combination of “more, more, more” – more protective clothing, more sunscreen, more shade – is ideal (as the British Skin Foundation’s campaign says).
- Shade and Schedule Still Matter: Toddlers love exploring, but try to schedule outdoor adventures in the safer morning or late afternoon hours when possible. If you’re at the playground at midday, seek out the shaded areas (many UK playgrounds now have shaded benches or small shade sails). Carry a portable UV tent or pop-up shade if you’ll be stationary, like at the beach or a picnic – many baby beach tents offer UPF50+ fabric and are a lifesaver for snack time or play time out of the sun. Teaching your child to take “shade breaks” (“Let’s have a juice in the shade for a bit”) can instil good habits. It’s concerning that 75% of kids don’t understand the importance of seeking shade – by making it a normal part of play (“this is our cool-down corner”), you help your child learn sun-safe behaviour early.
- Lead by Example: Toddlers are impressionable. If they see you applying sunscreen on yourself, wearing a sun hat, and embracing shade, they’ll mimic that. Make sun protection a family affair – everyone puts on sunscreen together, everyone wears hats on a day out. Not only does this help your child accept these measures, it also protects the rest of the family. (Parents need sun protection too – you don’t want to be the one with a sunburn while your baby is fully covered!)
- Be Mindful of Reflections and Altitude: If your family travels – say you take a holiday in a very sunny country or go up to the mountains – be aware that UV intensity can be much higher than in the UK. In winter sun or ski trips (high altitude = stronger UV), continue to protect your toddler even if the air feels cool. Snow is highly reflective (80%+ of UV bounces off it), so on a ski slope a child can get sunburned under their chin and on their nose from reflection – apply sunscreen accordingly and use face-covering buffs or hats with visors. At the seaside, water and sand reflect UV too. Essentially, wherever you are, think about UV as light – if you’re outside in daylight, some UV is hitting you, so plan for it.
By keeping these practices, you’re ensuring your child doesn’t join the statistic of having been sunburned. It’s sobering that a majority of UK children have had sunburns, but with vigilance your little one won’t be among them. And you’re instilling habits that will last a lifetime. A toddler who grows up knowing “hat, shirt, shade” will carry that wisdom into school age and beyond, significantly lowering their skin cancer risk long-term.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) – Baby Sun Protection
It’s not recommended to use sunscreen on infants under 6 months. Their skin can absorb the chemicals more readily and may react poorly. The preferred approach is to keep babies in the shade and covered with protective clothing and hats. If sun exposure cannot be avoided, you may apply a small amount of baby-specific SPF50 to limited areas (like face or hands) as a last resort, but try to minimise this. Always test a patch first for sensitivity. Once your baby is 6 months, you can begin using sunscreen more liberally on exposed skin – but even then, continue prioritising shade and clothing.
For babies 6 months+ and toddlers, use a high SPF broad-spectrum sunscreen, ideally SPF 50+ with UVA 5-star rating (or the UVA-in-a-circle symbol indicating strong UVA protection). The NHS advises SPF50 for young children. Choose a water-resistant, broad-spectrum product that protects against both UVB and UVA. Many brands produce sunscreen specifically for babies and young children – these products are formulated to be gentler (e.g. mineral-based, and less likely to contain additives that irritate skin). Use plenty of sunscreen and apply it regularly (every 2 hours, and immediately after swimming or sweating) for best protection. Remember: proper application and reapplication are more important than chasing ultra-high SPF numbers.
Yes, absolutely. Babies and children of all skin tones need sun protection. It’s a myth that melanin-rich or darker skin is immune to sun damage. While more melanin offers a bit more natural UV protection and darker skin generally doesn’t burn as quickly, it can still burn and sustain DNA damage. Skin cancers like melanoma, though less common in people with very dark skin, can be more dangerous due to later detection. More importantly, babies’ skin – no matter the complexion – is delicate and developing. Every child should be kept safe from harmful UV rays. So, the same rules apply: cover them up and avoid direct sun. In fact, sometimes sunburn on Black or Brown skin is harder to notice immediately (it might not turn pink; it could appear whitish, grayish, or feel tender later). Don’t rely on visible redness – rely on prevention. All parents, regardless of their baby’s skin colour, should practise vigilant sun protection.
It’s easy to forget that UV rays can penetrate glass. Standard car windows block most UVB but not UVA, which can still cause skin damage over long exposure. For car rides, use stick-on UV window shades on the side windows near your baby’s car seat. These mesh or static cling shades significantly cut down UV (and glare) reaching your baby. Make sure your baby’s arms or legs aren’t in direct sunlight coming through windows for extended periods. Dressing them in light long sleeves/pants for car trips can help. For home, if your baby often lies near a sunny window, consider applying a UV-protective window film or use curtains during peak sun hours. Fun fact: many people get asymmetric sun damage on the right side of their body from driving in the UK – so yes, window UV exposure is real! Keep an eye out and shade those windows to protect your little one’s skin.
First, try to prevent this with the tips above – baby burns can happen fast. But if it does occur, act quickly: Bring your baby indoors or into full shade immediately. Cool the skin with a clean, damp, cool (not cold) cloth on the affected area. You can also give your baby a lukewarm bath to soothe the heat. Hydrate your baby with breast milk or formula (and a little water if they’re old enough) – sunburn can dehydrate them. Do not use ice or very cold water on the burn, and avoid home remedies like butter. You may apply a gentle baby moisturiser or aloe vera gel to the area, but avoid anything with harsh chemicals. Watch for any signs of serious reaction: if blisters develop, or if your baby is very uncomfortable, feverish, or lethargic, seek medical attention. For any sunburn in a baby under 1 year, it’s wise to call your doctor for advice. Going forward, keep the burned area completely out of sunlight until it heals, and be extra cautious to prevent future burns.
This is a common concern, especially in the UK. It’s true that our bodies make vitamin D from sunlight. However, infants should not be put at risk for the sake of vitamin D. In fact, UK health guidelines already account for this: the NHS and paediatricians recommend vitamin D supplements for babies (usually in the form of drops) specifically because we don’t rely on sun exposure for infants. Babies 0–12 months who are breastfed should receive a daily supplement of 8.5–10 µg of vitamin D (formula-fed babies may need supplements if they drink less than 500ml of formula a day). This way, we ensure they have enough vitamin D for healthy growth without any deliberate sun exposure. Older children and adults in the UK are also often advised to take vitamin D in autumn/winter. So, don’t skip the sun protection out of vitamin D worries – give your baby the recommended supplements, and know that you’re not depriving them of anything by keeping them safe in the shade. The sun isn’t the only source of vitamin D, but it is the only source of sunburn and UV damage, so it’s not worth the trade-off.
If you can manage it, yes, it’s great to protect their eyes. Baby sunglasses are more than just a cute accessory – they shield your little one’s eyes from UV rays which could otherwise contribute to eye damage over time. Look for infant sunglasses labelled 100% UV protection (both UVA and UVB). Many come with a soft, adjustable strap to help keep them on. Not all babies will tolerate something on their face; some might yank them off immediately. It doesn’t hurt to try, though! Start with short periods and lots of positive reinforcement when they wear them. Even if they only keep them on for a few minutes at a time, that’s some added protection. Regardless, a wide-brim hat and stroller canopy will do a lot to shade their eyes if sunglasses are a no-go. And of course, never let a baby stare directly at bright sun – their developing eyes are very sensitive.
Enjoy the Sun – Safely – With Your Little One
Sunshine outings with your baby should be joyful, not stressful. By following these guidelines – seeking shade, dressing your baby in UPF50+ clothing and hats, timing your outdoor activities wisely, and using sunscreen (when appropriate) – you can relax knowing you’ve created a safe environment for your child. You’ll be protecting their tender skin now, and setting up healthy habits as they grow. In the UK, where we cherish every sunny day, it’s easy to underestimate the sun’s strength (yes, you can get a sunburn even on a breezy 20°C day with light cloud!). But a little preparation goes a long way. You’ve equipped yourself with knowledge: you know why infants need special care and exactly how to give it.
As you get ready for that next pram stroll or family picnic, picture the scene: your baby cooing happily under the shade of a tree, covered in a cute sun-protective outfit, you by their side in your floppy hat – making memories with total peace of mind. Sun protection is part of nurturing your child. With products like equatorsun’s Australian-designed UPF50+ baby sunsuits and hats, it’s easier than ever to keep your little one safe and comfortable. equatorsun’s gear is designed to block >98% of UV rays while being lightweight and gentle on baby skin – a perfect pairing with the tips you’ve learned above.
So go ahead and enjoy the great outdoors with your baby! Just remember: “Slip on a suit, slap on a hat, and shade or screen the pram” – your new sun mantra. By doing so, you’re not only preventing painful sunburns, but also safeguarding your child’s future skin health. Here’s to many sunny, safe adventures ahead for you and your family.
Ready to get sun-safe gear for your little one? Explore our Baby & Toddler UPF50+ collection to find the cutest protective outfits and accessories. Feel free to reach out to us at equatorsun for any questions about sun protection – we’re here to help you and your family stay safe in the sun!