Summer is here and the sun is shining bright - and parents start to think about how to keep their baby's sensitive skin protected. Babies have much thinner, more delicate skin than adults - making them more susceptible to heat, sunburn, and irritation. Knowing how to care for your baby's skin when it is hotter outside is essential to avoid discomfort, as well as any long term damage.

Also Read 👉 Common Baby Summer Health Issues and How to Prevent Them

You'll review practical, expert advice and kid-friendly summer skin care tips. Whether you're going on an adventurous day out, spending a week at the beach, or just lounging in the back yard, we've got you covered with tips on how to keep your baby cool, calm, and comfortable.

Why Should Baby Skin Be Extra Protected During the Summer?

As you can appreciate, baby skin is incredibly soft and delicate, has far fewer defenses than adult skin, and will rapidly lose moisture. Baby skin is also exposed to more sun damage, rashes, and allergic reactions, therefore, simply applying the normal adult skincare routine, and expecting it to protect a baby does not work. Babies need gentler, more protective, and careful solutions, especially when it gets hot outside!

Tip 1: Wear cotton clothing that has a breathable fabric

One of the simplest actions you can take to help lessen rashes and minimize irritation is to dress your baby in lightweight clothes made from cotton. Cotton allows the skin to breathe, stay comfy and cool, and offers the least risk of sweating, which can potentially lead to rashes from blocked pores and other feelings of discomfort. Opt for light colored clothes to reflect sunlight, and avoid tight clothes that may rub and irritate.

Real-world tip:

When dressing your child keep an eye out for cotton items that are labelled as “organic cotton” since these items are free of harsh chemical residues that could cause skin-related reactions in your baby.

Tip 2: Keep Baby Hydrated

Your baby can't tell you if they are feeling dehydrated, but their skin will certainly let you know. If you notice your baby’s skin looking dry, flaky and possibly rash-irritable, your baby may not be getting enough fluids, no matter if your baby is breastfeeding or formula-feeding. In hot weather make sure that both breast or formula baby is drinking more frequently. If any of the babies are old enough for water - offer them small amounts of water there is not a lot of advice from pediatricians on when a baby should start drinking water (usually 6mo).

Tip 3: Use Baby-Friendly Sunscreen

It's best for babies under six months, to not have any direct sunlight. Unfortunately, there may be times when avoiding the sun is not possible. Whenever that happens, make sure to use baby-safe sunscreen with physical blockers like zinc oxide and/or titanium dioxide. Unlike chemical sunscreen, physical blockers are not penetrated into the skin and will reflect harmful UV rays.

What to avoid:

Ultimately, avoid as many fragrances and harsh chemicals as possible, these ingredients can irritate the delicate skin of babies and can sometimes cause allergic reactions.

Tip 4: Avoid Sun Exposure During Peak Time

The sun is at its highest point (and strong ass) between 10 AM and 4 PM. So try to plan your outdoor activities early in the morning or later in the afternoon. When you're outside, keep your baby in some sort of shaded area, like under the stroller's canopy or in an umbrella. Even better, put them in a baby sunhat with a wide brim so the face, neck, and ears are all covered.

Tip 5: Keep the Skincare Routine Simple

Less is more during the summer months! There is a tendency to wash your baby, and/or use too many products. This can easily wash away natural oils, leading to dry or irritated skin. Use a gentle baby cleanser at bath time and a mild moisturizer to help seal in moisture.

Extra Tip: If your goal is to eliminate sweat, and/ or prevent heat rashes, avoid talcum powders and use cornstarch25-type products instead.

Tip 6: Be Aware of Heat Rashes

Many babies will break out in heat rashes during the summer months, most commonly on the neckline, armpits, and/or diaper area. Treat and keep them from reappearing by keeping your baby in loose-fitting clothes, dry skin, and minimal layers even inside. If your baby does develop a heat rash, be aware of it and treat it unless it worsens or does not go away, and then you may want to contact your paediatrician!

Tip 7: Keep Baby's Environment Cool

The environment where your baby will be spending their time is just as important as the skincare products that you will be applying to their skin! You will want to keep your environment free of stuffiness and not too hot. If your home is steamy, use fans or air conditioning, but do not put the fan blowing directly on your baby. Regarding blankets or sleep sacks, dress your baby in lightweight materials that breathe when napping or sleeping.

Gentle Care Is the Best Care

Your baby's skin is going to need extra love this summer to help protect it, but it doesn't have to be complicated. By choosing clothes that breathe easy, not letting them bake in the sun, and using gentle products you can help your baby keep their skin soft, smooth, and happy all season long.

Most importantly, every baby is unique. What works for one baby may not work for another so always be mindful of the way your baby responds to different routines or products. When uncertain, reach out to your pediatrician.