Author: Dr Camilla Eiffe
Summer is here (kind of anyway). Dreaming of the beach? Determined to lie in the sun
even if it’s in a playground with a baby? Go for it- soak it all up!
Here are some signs, however, that your baby might need a break in the shade and tips to avoid overheating.
Top tips to keep your baby cool and protected from the sun.
1. Try and keep babies less than 6 months old out of direct sunlight. Their skin contains
too little melanin, which is the pigment that gives skin, hair and eyes their colour,
and provides some protection from the sun.
2. If you go out when it’s hot, attach a parasol or sunshade to your baby’s pushchair to
keep them out of direct sunlight.
3. Regularly apply a sunscreen (SPF 30 at least) that protects against UVA and UVB.
Many brands produce sunscreen specifically for babies and kids, as these products
are less likely to contain additives that might irritate the skin.
4. Try and get your child to wear a sunhat with a wide brim or a long flap at the back to
protect their head and neck from the sun (If they are anything like my son this will be
almost impossible).
How will I know if my baby is too hot?
Feel the back of their neck or tummy. If their skin feels damp, then they may be too
hot. Avoid putting a hat or hood on your baby when they are in bed as this can lead
to overheating. It is better for baby to be cool rather than hot as they will soon let
you know if they are too cold!
Other signs might include looking red/flushed, heart beating faster than their
normal, overtiredness/sluggish
If your baby feels damp or is sweating and seems uncomfortable, take their
temperature to make sure they do not have a fever and of course if any concerns call
your huisarts!
For further details on ‘in-home’courses in baby and child first aid (including the
management of choking) get in touch-