Too much sun can be extremely harmful to your baby or child. They can sunburn in only 15 minutes depending on the UV index value. If the UV index is low (from 0-2), the risk of getting too much sun is fairly low. If the UV index is between 3 and 7, you need to put lots of protection on your child.
• Dress your child in long sleeves, long pants and a hat with a wide brim. Buy them sunglasses that block both UVA and UVB.
• When your shadow is shorter than you are, that means the sun is very strong. Look for places to play outside with lots of shade. Don’t forget your umbrella when you go to the beach.
• Apply sunscreen on children when they are outside. The bottle should be SPF 15 or higher. Reapply sunscreen every 20 minutes after being out in the sun. Do not apply sunscreen on babies less than six months old.
• Try to minimize children exposure to sun between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. UV rays are strongest during this time.
• Never use baby oil to protect children from the sun.
• Be aware of reflections from water, sand and concrete as it can nearly double UV strength.