Which Baby Sunscreen Should You Use

It's important to choose the best baby sunscreen for your child. Sunburn can be disastrous for your newborn, causing first, second and even third degree burns. Each time a child suffers sunburn the chances increase of skin cancer later in life. Most people get about 80 % of their lifetime exposure to ultraviolet rays in their childhood and teen years. Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States and sunburn is the leading cause of skin cancer. Reduce your child's risk by choosing the right baby sunscreen.

Label Details to Look For
When you shop for an appropriate sunscreen for your baby, watch for ones that:

• Are water resistant
• Boast a Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of at between 15 and 45. (Higher SPF is required when the sunscreen is also an insect repellent with DEET.)
• Provide a broad spectrum of UVA and UVB protection
• Are hypoallergenic (fragrance free)
• Are PABA  free
• Have the Skin Cancer Foundation Seal
• Come in an easy to apply form (lotion, cream, or spray)

Use it Correctly
Some parents believe sunscreen itself can cause disease or a stifling of the baby's ability to cool himself through skin pores, but most pediatricians say the risk is minimal for children compared to the known risk of sunburn.

Use enough sunscreen and apply often (most parents use far less than needed to obtain SPF value), starting thirty minutes before exposure to the sun. Keep children in shade when possible. Use stroller and portable shades when possible.

Further protect your child with hats and clothing. Keep him out of the sun during peak sun hours-10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Remember that even overcast days can result in sunburn for children's delicate skin.

Protect your child from the sun's harmful ultraviolet rays. Excessive exposure and repeated sunburn can cause cancer or premature skin aging. Keep outdoor play a joyful experience.