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Nobody would suggest infants should be kept in darkness, a little sunlight can be pleasant and beneficial for their health. There is however a degree of misunderstanding on how far this should go.
Parents can feel their babies will be better off for more sun exposure, or the time will help them to build tolerance to the sun’s rays and prevent issues. An understandable wish to protect, although not matched by medical reality.
Melanin, the natural pigment which protects us, increases in our bodies during the early stages of life. Babies are often born with quite low levels and will take at least 6 months to develop a reasonable supply.
Infant skin is also vulnerable in other ways, a quite thin work in progress for some while after birth. Beyond the rapid changes we see, the risk of longer term damage from the sun is well established.
Looking To The Future
A respected body of research shares a conclusion, sunburn in early life significantly increases skin cancers in later years. This applies to all types, not least malignant melanoma, the most dangerous form.
The good news is that you can help in a number of ways. Finding shade during the hotter part of the day is important, as is choosing protective clothing, which can be lightweight yet still cover exposed parts.
A wide brimmed hat makes sense and sunglasses for sensitive eyes. Many pharmacies stock sunglasses designed for infants, with straps to hold them in place.
Whilst car windows protect from parts of the sun’s spectrum, they generally do not block UVA. Buying a UV shield, or adding protective window film which stops UV rays reaching a child’s seat is a useful idea.
Testing for sensitivity on a small area is helpful but in most cases, sunscreen can be safely used after the age of 6 months. Apply about 30 minutes before going outside and again after a swim, or sweating.
These actions build understanding and can make life easier as children grow. Part of building good habits for life, which they can take into adulthood.
For All Children
The basic tenets of skin cancer apply through life, fair skin increases vulnerability. We should still appreciate that no skin colour brings immunity and that melanin levels develop over several months in all babies.
Similar thoughts apply on an individual child’s attitude to sun protection, many will be fine, although there can be issues a few years on. Persevering will be worthwhile, for the present and the longer term.
Helping to protect young people is part of children’s dermatology, all our team appreciate the extra effort involved and the value this holds.