From the Guidelines
Sun exposure is bad for infants primarily because their skin is thinner and contains less melanin than adult skin, making them more vulnerable to sun damage. While skin cancer is a long-term concern, the immediate risks include severe sunburn, dehydration, heat exhaustion, and eye damage. The American Cancer Society advises the importance of protecting children from the sun because of the increased risk for cancer resulting from severe sunburns in childhood 1. Infants under 6 months should be kept out of direct sunlight whenever possible, as their skin burns more easily and they cannot effectively regulate body temperature. For babies older than 6 months, use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher, apply it 15-30 minutes before going outside, and reapply every two hours or after swimming or sweating, as recommended by the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force 1. Additional protection should include:
- Lightweight clothing covering arms and legs
- A wide-brimmed hat
- Seeking shade, especially during peak sun hours (10 AM to 4 PM) The damage from sun exposure is cumulative over a lifetime, so protecting infants establishes a foundation for long-term skin health and reduces the risk of developing skin cancer later in life. It is essential to follow the guidelines for school programs to prevent skin cancer, which include protection of the skin from solar damage, wearing tightly woven protective clothing, seeking shade, and using sunscreens 1. By prioritizing sun protection for infants, parents and caregivers can help prevent immediate and long-term harm, ultimately reducing the risk of skin cancer and promoting overall health and well-being.
From the Research
Sun Exposure in Infants
- Sun exposure can be harmful to infants due to their sensitive skin and developing immune system 2, 3.
- While cancer is a concern, it is not the only risk associated with sun exposure in infants.
Risks of Sun Exposure
- Sunburn and skin damage are immediate risks of sun exposure in infants 3, 4.
- Long-term risks include increased risk of skin cancer and photoaging 2, 5.
- UVB radiation is a primary cause of sunburn and skin cancer, but it is also essential for vitamin D synthesis 2.
Protection Measures
- Using sunscreens with high UVA protection factor (PF) can help prevent sunburn and allow for vitamin D synthesis 2.
- Clothing and shade are also essential for protecting infants from the sun 6.
- Topical corticosteroids may be used to treat sunburn, but their effectiveness depends on the timing and potency of the treatment 3, 4.
Specific Concerns for Infants
- Infants have sensitive skin and may be more prone to sunburn and skin damage 3, 4.
- Their developing immune system may also make them more susceptible to the harmful effects of UV radiation 2, 5.
- It is essential to take extra precautions to protect infants from the sun, including using sunscreens, clothing, and shade 2, 6.