Put on the sunscreen! Though lotions and sticks protect baby's skin from cancer-causing UVA and UVB rays, doctors advise new moms to use physical barriers — SPF clothing, umbrellas, and shades — rather than sunscreen on babies younger than 6 months old.
Once kids reach the 6-month mark, keep them protected from the sun without harming them in other ways. The Environmental Working Group's recommendations for the best sunscreens for kids — products that do not contain potential hormone disruptors — is considered the definitive list of safe options. The group recommends staying away from spray-on lotions and powders, as well as those containing oxybenzone or vitamin A. At the top of its list are sunscreens using zinc or titanium for the best UVA/UVB protection without the use of such harmful chemicals. Here are their top picks (many of which can be found at your local drugstore — not just at specialty stores).
Once kids reach the 6-month mark, keep them protected from the sun without harming them in other ways. The Environmental Working Group's recommendations for the best sunscreens for kids — products that do not contain potential hormone disruptors — is considered the definitive list of safe options. The group recommends staying away from spray-on lotions and powders, as well as those containing oxybenzone or vitamin A. At the top of its list are sunscreens using zinc or titanium for the best UVA/UVB protection without the use of such harmful chemicals. Here are their top picks (many of which can be found at your local drugstore — not just at specialty stores).