sun protection under 6 months

[northwoods]

I've been told that sun screen for babies under 6 months is bad. We're going to Mexico next month, and I'm going to try m very best to stay in the shade. Any other tips for keeping baby's skin out of the sun?

[Knitting Mama]

Loose, long sleeve and long pants are probably your best bet, along with sun hats.

[angela67j]

I have the palest husband and daughter....I am dark and never worried about sunburns till I meet my husband who burns easily.  This summer I had my LO (born in March) out all the time.  I used sun hats, Badger sunscreen it is all natural and is a barrier it doesn't absorb into the skin. We swam, went on walks, gardened with her in a carrier and she never had a problem.  I would not stay in direct sunlight for too long....oh I miss the sun!! Have FUN!!

[Zangua]

You can get a product called 'Invisible Zinc'- it is pure zinc and 30spf. It doesn't contain any of the nasty chemicals that sunscreen does and is safe for little babies! You have to order it from Australia.

http://www.invisiblezinc.com/

[ElaynesMom]

I agree loose fitting long pants and tshirts, sunhats, staying in shade are your best bets. Also you can get sun protective clothing. My favourite place to order sun protective clothing is Coolibar as they make their fabrics sun protective by the addition of a titanium dioxide or zinc coating instead of chemicals :

http://www.coolibar.com/infant-toddler-girls-clothing.html

Also, there are several natural, zinc only sunscreens available that should be fine to use on the small parts of your lo's body that are exposed, such as Badger (which now comes in a fragrance free version). I think it's mostly chemical sunscreens that you shouldn't use on babies as the chemicals are absorbed by the body, instead of sitting on top of the skin like minerals.

[PatioGardener]

A full body SPF swim suit plus a hat will help if you plan to be in the sea or pool.