A top paediatrician and dad-of-five has revealed the best tips for keeping children protected in the sun.
Dr Jonathan Williams says you should avoid putting sunscreen on babies until they are over six months old.
He explains the differences between mineral and chemical SPF products.
READ MORE: ‘I’m an allergy doctor – this is why I’d NEVER pierce my young children’s ears and ban SHOES’
And he lifts the lid on the truth behind so-called ‘waterproof’ substances.
“If you put in the work now, their future perfect skin is going to thank you,” he told Need To Know.
Dr Williams, from Layton, Utah, US, has been a doctor for 10 years and often shares his expertise with 6,000 Instagram followers on @tiktikkiddoc
On the subject of newborns specifically, he said: “We try to avoid the sun as much as we can with baby’s sensitive skin.
“Babies have a lot more surface area and their skin is more absorptive and more permeable to irritants because it has a weaker barrier function.
“For that reason, we try to avoid sunscreen as best as we can until babies are six months old.
“Until then, you can keep them in a shaded area, under a canopy, or an umbrella.
“And you can keep them protected with big floppy hats and light, loose-fitting long pants and sleeves.”
Dr Williams dished the dirt on which sunscreen is best for tots too.
He said: “There are mineral sunscreens and there are chemical sunscreens.
“Mineral sunscreens are safer for children. You want to look for active ingredients like titanium dioxide and zinc oxide.
“UV rays are most harmful between 10am and 2pm, so you might schedule your outdoor party after these hours.
“But there are a lot of factors — you can always check locally to see when the UV will be strongest in your area.”
When it comes to ‘waterproof’ products, Dr Williams warns parents need to be wary.
He said: “Keep in mind that waterproof isn’t as waterproof as they say it is.
“As a general rule, sunscreen should be reapplied every two hours, but more frequently if swimming or sweating.
“Hydration is super important.
“Kids are active and can dehydrate quickly, so make sure they are drinking plenty of fluids while outdoors, and replace electrolytes if they are sweating.
“Be sure to know the signs of overheating and heatstroke. Have them take breaks and check in with them frequently.
“Kids thrive with unstructured play – it is how they learn and develop.
“Outdoor play is critical for them in multiple areas of growth, including helping them do better in school, and is protective of their mental health.”
READ MORE: Woman left in shock as face ‘starts to burn’ with ‘crazy’ hives after morning run
