Simple Sun Safety: A New Mom’s Guide to Baby-Friendly Sunscreen
Photo by Sierra Wilde
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Seriously, mamas, sunscreen is a minefield. And social media? Forget about it. It's like everyone's a dermatologist with a hot take. SPF, Broad Spectrum, PA++ – what does it all mean? And those ingredient lists? Are we supposed to be chemists now? What's safe? What's not? Is hiding indoors the only answer? If you're like me, you want healthy babies, healthy skin, and answers that don't require a Ph.D. This is for you.
It's overwhelming, isn't it? We're all trying to do our best, but the sunscreen world is a confusing jungle. Do we let them soak up a little vitamin D? Is spray sunscreen a secret toxin? And is mineral safer than chemical? It can feel like a battle of the buzzwords. Trust me, I've been there, scrolling through endless posts and forums until I found some clarity. And I’m going to share it with you, no judgment, just real talk.
Because when it comes to those precious little ones, and their baby-soft, sensitive skin, we can't afford to guess. We need to know, without a doubt, that we're making the safest, most informed choices. So, let's cut through the noise, ditch the confusion, and get down to the basics. Sunscreen, simplified. Because you deserve to feel confident and empowered.
Sunlight, Skin, and Safety: Finding the Right Balance
Photo by Sierra Wilde
Okay, mamas, let's talk sunshine. We all love that warm, golden feeling on our skin, right? Sunshine feels good! But that’s not all the sun does for us! It's our main source of vitamin D, the superhero nutrient that keeps our bones strong, our immune systems happy, and even helps boost our mood. And let's be real, who doesn't need a mood boost with a new little one? As much of a blessing as they are, they take a lot of energy!
Now, I know what you’re thinking: ‘But sunscreen!’ Don't worry, we'll get to that. But let's talk about the good stuff first. We've been told to fear the sun, but completely avoiding it isn't the answer.
Vitamin D is crucial. Vitamin D is crucial, aiding calcium absorption for strong bones and supporting immunity. Postpartum blues? Sunshine helps! Our bodies, and even our babies' skin, make vitamin D from only a few minutes of sunlight. However, if you’ve returned to work after maternity leave or find yourself being reclusive during the winter months, getting enough can be tricky.
Babies under 6 months: skip sunscreen. The American Academy of Dermatology advises against sunscreen use. Their sensitive skin, coupled with their small size, makes them more prone to heatstroke. Instead, avoid the hottest part of the day when UV rays are strongest, seek shady trails, dress them in loose, lightweight, light-colored clothing, and utilize umbrellas or muslin blankets (more on that later). The American Academy of Pediatrics also recommends vitamin D supplements for all infants during their first year, as direct sun exposure is discouraged.
What about your levels of vitamin D? Good news: you produce vitamin D even while wearing sunscreen. Some UVB rays still penetrate! That's why sunscreen brands shifted from 'sunblock' to 'sunscreen' – sunscreen protects, it does not completely block. Plus your diet, and supplements, can be a big help too!
Sunshine also benefits hair and skin, but too much can lead to damage. Balance is key. A little sun exposure can stimulate hair follicles, promoting growth and potentially increasing thickness.
Pro Tip: aim for a few minutes of sun exposure without sunscreen during the less intense hours of the day, like early morning or late afternoon. Think 10-15 minutes, depending on your skin type and where you live. Then, for longer periods of sun exposure, slather on that broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher. Remember, the time of year and your location play a big role in how much sun you need, too.
Sun is your friend, vitamin D is essential, and sun protection is non-negotiable. Now, let's dive into the nitty-gritty of sunscreen. Because when it comes to those little ones, and our own changing bodies, we need to know what's safe and effective. Let's break down mineral vs. chemical, decode those confusing labels, and find the perfect sunscreen for you and your baby.
The Difference Between UVA and UVB: Protecting Your Skin
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UVA Rays: Aging culprits (wrinkles and sun spots and some skin cancers)
UVB Rays: Burn buddies (most skin cancers)
Always choose “Broad Spectrum” sunscreen to protect you from both UVA and UVB rays.
Decoded: SPF & PA+ Ratings (What They Really Mean)
SPF (Sun Protection Factor):
30 SPF: About 96% UVB protection
50 SPF: About 98% UVB protection
Don't stress too much about the number, just make sure it's between 30 and 50.
Remember: SPF is for UVB only! So it only gauges how protected you are from sunburns and most cancers, not premature aging.
PA+ Rating:
Although not widely used yet, it measures UVA protection. Keep an eye out for it!
PA+ to PA++++: Increasing levels of UVA protection
Mineral vs. Chemical Sunscreen: What’s the Difference?
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Mineral Sunscreens: Your Skin's Protective Shield
Think of mineral sunscreens as a gentle barrier. They sit on top of your skin, like a tiny army, reflecting those harmful UV rays away. This makes them ideal for sensitive skin, and perfect for babies and nursing moms.
Bonus: Some mineral sunscreens, like those with ceramides (like CeraVe), help strengthen your skin's natural barrier. A lifesaver for postpartum skin!
Chemical Sunscreens: Absorption & Conversion (But Not Recommended for You or Your Baby!)
Chemical sunscreens absorb into your skin, turning UV rays into heat. Sounds scientific, right? But here's the catch: they can be irritating, especially for sensitive skin, pregnant or nursing moms, and those precious little ones.
For new moms and babies, mineral is the way to go.
Mineral Ingredients: Skin & Planet-Friendly Heroes
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Now, let's talk about the good guys! Mineral sunscreens use:
Zinc Oxide & Titanium Dioxide (The Power Duo)
These are the superheroes of mineral sunscreen. Zinc oxide provides excellent broad-spectrum protection, especially against long UVA rays, while titanium dioxide excels at blocking UVB and short UVA rays. Look for sunscreens with a concentration of these ingredients between 10-25% for optimal protection. Some sunscreens may only use zinc oxide, these still provide excellent protection.
Nanoparticles (Tiny But Mighty)
You might see "nanoparticles" on the label, but don't worry! These are simply tiny versions of zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. They're safe for your toddler's skin, as they don't get absorbed. Plus, they make the sunscreen easier to apply and minimize white cast (a white film appearance over skin).
Pro Tip: Lotion or cream formulas are best – avoid powders and aerosols to prevent inhalation. While the FDA considers ingestion or inhalation of zinc oxide safe, titanium dioxide is not.
Sunscreen Solutions for New Mom’s Skin Concerns
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Hormonal Acne:
Postpartum breakouts? You're not alone! Look for non-comedogenic sunscreens that are oil-free and dermatologist-approved. Avoid pore-clogging ingredients like coconut oil and lanolin. Opt for lighter moisturizers like jojoba, sunflower, argan, acai, or evening primrose oil, or aloe vera.
Melasma (Hyperpigmentation):
Protecting against melasma is key! Choose a broad-spectrum mineral sunscreen with high UVA and UVB protection (PA++++ and SPF 50+). Look for ingredients like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, and reapply frequently. Consider sun protective clothing also.
Dryness and Dehydration:
Combat dryness with hydrating sunscreens containing hyaluronic acid, glycerin, or ceramides. Look for creamy textures. Shea butter and sunflower oil can also help lock in moisture.
Increased Sensitivity:
Gentle is best! Mineral sunscreens are ideal for sensitive postpartum skin. Avoid fragrances, dyes, and harsh chemicals. Look for hypoallergenic and fragrance-free labels.
Dark Circles and Puffiness:
While sunscreen does not directly help these issues, protecting the delicate skin around the eyes is still very important. Choose a gentle mineral sunscreen, and consider sun protective sunglasses.
Changes in Skin Texture:
Sunscreens containing ingredients such as rice bran extract, chamomile, and sunflower oil, can help to even skin tone and texture.
Chemical Ingredients: Hidden Risks (Avoid These!)
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Listen up, mamas: Many chemical sunscreen ingredients aren't considered safe, especially for use on your newborn baby’s skin and yours. In fact, none of the chemical ingredients listed below are considered safe and effective by the FDA, especially at the concentration strengths seen in the formulas sold in the USA.
Avobenzone: Used to protect against UVA rays, it breaks down quickly (offering only 30 minutes of protection unless paired with other ingredients like those listed below), can irritate skin, and can block testosterone. Not ideal for anyone, especially during sensitive times.
Oxybenzone: AKA the coral reef villain! Used to protect against UVA rays, its side effects can lead to lower testosterone in boys and negative pregnancy outcomes (early delivery or lower birth weights). A definite no-go.
Octocrylene: Used to protect against UVB rays, it is an endocrine disruptor, skin irritant, and bad for coral reefs. Plus, it breaks down into toxic free radials in your body, increasing your risk of cancer and other health issues. It can even linger in your body for weeks, traceable in blood, urine, and even breast milk. Yikes!
Octisalate, Octinoxate, Homosalate: Octisalate is used to protect against UVB rays and adds water-resistant properties. Octinoxate and Homosalate are both used to protect against UVB rays. And all have potential risks, including skin irritation, hormone disruption, and environmental damage. And like Octocrylene, Octinoxate can be found in your urine, blood, and breast milk weeks after use. Bleck!
Skip These: Hidden Additives to Avoid
Read those labels, mamas! These sneaky ingredients can cause real big trouble:
Parabens: Used to lengthen the shelf life of the product, they are known endocrine disruptors.
Common parabens include: butylparaben, ethylparaben, methylparaben, and propylparaben.
Phthalates: Neurotoxic, hormone disruptors, and bad for your organs (liver, kidney, and lungs). Steer clear!
May be listed by name or as “fragrance.” You can also pick them out by the recycling symbol on the bottle (3 or 7).
Sulfates: These pull your skin’s natural oils away from your body, causing irritated and dry skin, which is the last thing we, mamas, need.
One common sulfate used in sunscreen is sodium lauryl sulfate.
Fragrances & Dyes: Irritants disguised as pretty scents and colors (petroleum- or synthetic-based). Go fragrance- and dye- free!
Mineral Oils: Intended to undo the affects of fragrances and dyes, these are also petroleum- and synthetic-based. Not to mention they will clog your pores. Opt for natural oils instead.
Infant Sun Protection: Beyond Sunscreen
Photo by Jake Wilde
While sunscreen is essential, infants need extra protection from the sun's harmful rays. Here's how to create a complete sun-safe environment for your little one:
Baby Sunglasses: Shield those delicate eyes with baby sunglasses featuring an adjustable strap to keep them securely in place.
Wide-Brim Hat: A wide-brim hat with an adjustable chin strap is a must-have to protect their face, neck, and ears. Stay away from hats that either don’t have a chin strap or merely use velcro, neither of these will stand up against wind or roving baby hands.
Protective Clothing: When weather allows, dress your infant in loose, lightweight, long-sleeve tops, pants, and booties to protect their sensitive skin from direct sun exposure.
Pro Tip: For added protection, especially in hot weather where your baby is more likely to be dressed in only a light onesie or romper, use a muslin swaddle blanket. Tie it onto either your backpack or the straps of your front carrier and drape it loosely over your baby's limbs and, if rear-facing, over their head. This provides shade and reduces sun exposure to areas not covered by clothing, without overheating them.
Soothing Dryness: Post-Sun and Sunscreen Recovery for Moms and Babies
Mineral sunscreens are a go-to for safe sun protection, but they can sometimes leave both your and your baby's skin feeling dry. Here's why, and how to keep your skin and your baby's skin comfortable:
The Nature of Mineral Sunscreen:
Mineral sunscreens create a protective barrier on the skin's surface to block UV rays. This barrier, while essential for safety, can sometimes absorb natural skin oils, leading to dryness in both infants and postpartum moms.
Postpartum hormonal changes can also contribute to increased skin dryness.
Moisturizing Ingredients Matter:
Many mineral sunscreens prioritize safety over added moisturizers, which can exacerbate dryness, especially for infants with delicate skin and moms experiencing hormonal shifts.
Post-Sun Care Tips (To combat dryness and keep skin soft and healthy):
Gentle Cleansing: After sun exposure, give your baby a gentle bath with a mild, fragrance-free baby wash. For yourself, use a gentle cleanser as well.
Natural Oils for Baby and Mom: Apply a small amount of pure, organic coconut oil or jojoba oil to your baby's skin to replenish moisture. For yourself, these oils can also be used, or a moisturizer that is friendly to sensitive skin.
Hydrating Balms for Extra Dryness: For extra dry or irritated areas on both mom and baby, use a hydrating balm like Dr. Bronner’s Unscented Organic Magic Balm or Earth Mama’s Organic Nipple Butter. These are safe and effective for both infant and mom skin.
Pro Tip: Use the nipple butter on dry lips!
Breastfeeding Mom Hydration: If you are breastfeeding, it is especially important that you are drinking enough of water, as this will help with not only skin hydration, but also baby’s.
Cool Compresses: If either you or your baby have any areas of redness or irritation, apply a cool, damp cloth to soothe the skin. You can also apply organic aloe vera (the best source is straight from your own houseplant’s leaves)!
By following these simple steps, you can keep both your and your baby's skin happy, hydrated, and healthy after sun exposure.
So, what's the takeaway?
Keep it simple: mineral sunscreens are the safest choice for new moms and 6+ month-old babies. Avoid those harsh chemicals and hidden additives. And don't forget to check those SPF and PA ratings! While it isn’t without imperfections, my go-to sunscreen for my family is Blue Lizard (their sticks make face application to wiggling babies less hazardous - just be sure to rub it in!). It checks all the boxes for us – gentle, effective, and easy to apply. Plus, their caps and bottles change color in UV light, giving you a fun visual cue that it's sunscreen time!
Ready to make the switch? Grab a bottle of mineral sunscreen, head outside, and enjoy some sun-safe fun with your little one!
