When you become a parent, one of the first questions you’ll ask about outdoor time is:

“Can I use sunscreen on my baby?”

According to both the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and the Canadian Paediatric Society (CPS), the answer is simple:

Sunscreen is not recommended for babies under 6 months.

But the reason isn’t about ingredients—it’s about your baby’s unique and delicate skin. Here’s what parents need to know.

1. A Baby’s Skin Is Thinner and More Absorbent

Newborn and young infant skin is:

• Thinner

• More permeable

• More sensitive to irritation

This means sunscreen ingredients—whether mineral or chemical—can be absorbed more easily. Pediatric organizations recommend focusing on avoidance and physical protection, not topical products, during the first months of life.

2. Babies Can’t Regulate Heat Well

Sunscreen can give the impression that a baby is “safe” in the sun, but babies under 6 months:

• Overheat quickly

• Dehydrate easily

• Can’t communicate discomfort

The safest approach is to minimize direct sun exposure entirely.

For a full overview of safe outdoor practices for babies, explore:

👉 The New Parent’s Guide to Baby Sun Protection (0–24 Months)

3. Shade and Clothing Offer Better Protection Than Sunscreen

AAP and CPS agree that the safest approach for newborns includes:

✔ Keeping babies in the shade

Use stroller canopies, umbrellas, and natural shade whenever possible.

✔ Dressing babies in lightweight protective clothing

Long sleeves, long pants, and UPF-rated fabrics provide reliable coverage without adding heat.

Learn more here:

👉 UPF Explained: Why Babies and Toddlers Need Sun-Protective Clothing

✔ Using wide-brimmed hats

Soft, breathable hats protect the face, neck, and ears—areas that burn easily.

4. What If Shade Isn’t Perfect? AAP Guidance on Limited Sunscreen Use

Both AAP and CPS acknowledge that in rare situations where shade and clothing cannot fully cover exposed skin, parents may apply a small amount of mineral sunscreen to very limited areas (like the back of the hands or nose).

Important distinctions:

• This is a backup, not a routine solution

• Choose zinc oxide or titanium dioxide

• Do not rely on sunscreen for prolonged time outdoors

• Avoid peak UV hours whenever possible

This nuance helps parents feel confident without overusing products during a baby’s most vulnerable stage.

5. After 6 Months: Sunscreen Becomes Part of the Routine

Once babies reach six months, sunscreen becomes safer and more practical. Parents can begin using:

• Broad-spectrum SPF 30+

• Mineral formulas (often best tolerated)

• Regular reapplication, especially outdoors

But UPF clothing continues to be one of the easiest, most reliable ways to protect your growing baby—no reapplying required.

Learn more here:

👉 Chemical vs. Chemical-Free UPF Clothing: What’s Best for Babies?

6. The Bottom Line: Avoid Direct Sun on Newborn Skin

For the first six months, the best approach is simple:

• Keep babies shaded

• Dress them in protective layers

• Use hats

• Plan outings around UV intensity

• Avoid relying on sunscreen

It’s the safest way to protect developing skin—and establish good habits for your outdoor-loving little one.

Looking for gentle, chemical-free protection?

Explore our UPF clothing designed specifically for babies, created to keep their delicate skin covered and comfortable.