Should I put sunblock on my baby?

Many question applying sun block on newborns, or babies younger than 6 months of age. The American Academy of Pediatrics suggests (for babies 6 months and younger) using sunscreen on small areas of the body, such as the face and the back of the neck, hands, etc, but only when adequate clothing and shade are not available. Make sure to check with your child’s pediatrician regarding sun block applications.

Before putting any sun block on newborn skin, keep in mind that babies have more skin for the size body as compared to an adult and therefore, get a higher chemical "dose". When using sunblock:

-look for chemical-free sun blocks like Blue Lizard Baby formula; the active ingredients being titanium dioxide and zinc oxide. You want to be sure there is minimal chemical exposure if any.
-Do a “patch test” on baby’s skin to be sure there is no sensitivity. Use a quarter-sized application of the product on skin and wait 1-2 days to see if there is any skin irritation. -Try to apply sun block at least 20 minutes before going out so that there is absorption.
In lew of, or in addition to sunblock, consider:
• Properly dress your child in light-weight UV blocking items, like wide brimmed hats and light-weight clothing. Save those newborn bikini’s and swim trunks for indoor pools, and consider the UV blocking swimsuits that are not only cute, but are made of tightly weaved sun protection fabric that block the sun! Make sure they are certified, like Solaroo’s 98% UV blocking swimsuits.
• Consider products that block the sun without actual skin applications, like a sun sheet that tie to a stroller or front carrier
• Even with baby properly dressed, covered in sun block, and under shade, check baby constantly for signs of dehydration or over-heating.
• Call your pediatrician immediately if your baby is sunburned.