Can I put sunscreen on a baby under 6 months?

For babies under 6 months, shade and clothing are the first choice. If shade and protective clothing are not available, you can apply a small amount of sunscreen to exposed areas like the face and the backs of the hands.

What SPF does my baby need?

Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen. The AAP lists a minimum of SPF 15, while Mayo Clinic and many dermatologists recommend at least SPF 30 for children. Broad-spectrum coverage against both UVA and UVB matters more than a very high SPF number.

Is mineral or chemical sunscreen better for babies?

For babies and sensitive skin, a mineral sunscreen with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide is a common choice because it sits on top of the skin rather than absorbing into it. Whatever you choose, make sure it is labeled broad-spectrum.

How often should I reapply sunscreen on my child?

Apply sunscreen 15 to 30 minutes before going outside, then reapply every 2 hours. Reapply sooner after swimming, sweating, or towel drying, even with a water-resistant product.

What time of day is the sun strongest?

UV rays are strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. When possible, keep babies in shade during those hours and plan outdoor activities for earlier morning or later afternoon.

Do hats and clothing really matter if I use sunscreen?

Yes. Tight-weave or UPF clothing, a wide-brim hat, and shade are the most reliable protection, especially for babies. Sunscreen is one layer added on top, not a replacement for cover and shade.

Summer safety · All ages

Protecting Your Baby From the Summer Sun

Baby skin burns easily, and the right protection depends on age. Under 6 months, the safest approach is shade and clothing rather than sunscreen on most of the body. From 6 months on, mineral sunscreen becomes part of the plan. This guide covers what to use at each age, how to apply it, and the clothing and timing choices that do most of the work.

2 min read Seasonal Safety Updated June 2026

Under 6 months: shade and clothing

Keep babies younger than 6 months out of direct sunlight. Their skin is thin and sensitive, and they also overheat easily. Use a stroller canopy, an umbrella, or a shady spot, and dress them in lightweight clothing that covers the arms and legs plus a hat with a brim.

If shade and clothing are not available, you can apply a small amount of sunscreen to exposed areas such as the face and backs of the hands. This is the exception, not the routine. Cover and shade come first at this age.

6 months and up: mineral sunscreen

From 6 months, apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen before going outside. For babies and sensitive skin, choose a mineral formula with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, which sit on top of the skin. Broad-spectrum means it protects against both UVA and UVB rays.

The AAP lists a minimum of SPF 15; many dermatologists and Mayo Clinic recommend at least SPF 30 for children. Either way, broad-spectrum coverage matters more than chasing a very high SPF number. Apply generously to all exposed skin.

Apply early and reapply often

Sunscreen works only when there is enough of it and it is refreshed. Most people apply too little and reapply too rarely.

Apply about 15 to 30 minutes before going outdoors so it can absorb.
Reapply every 2 hours.
Reapply after swimming, sweating, or toweling off, even if the label says water-resistant.
Do not forget easy-to-miss spots: ears, tops of feet, the back of the neck, and the part in the hair.

Use clothing, hats, and timing as your first line

Sunscreen is one layer. Physical cover and timing do the rest. Dress your child in tight-weave or UPF-labeled clothing, a wide-brim hat that shades the face and neck, and, for older babies and toddlers, sunglasses that block UV.

Plan outdoor time around the sun. UV rays are strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., so move shaded play and naps into those hours when you can, and save the park or beach for morning or late afternoon.

Common questions

Can I put sunscreen on a baby under 6 months?: For babies under 6 months, shade and clothing are the first choice. If shade and protective clothing are not available, you can apply a small amount of sunscreen to exposed areas like the face and the backs of the hands.
What SPF does my baby need?: Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen. The AAP lists a minimum of SPF 15, while Mayo Clinic and many dermatologists recommend at least SPF 30 for children. Broad-spectrum coverage against both UVA and UVB matters more than a very high SPF number.
Is mineral or chemical sunscreen better for babies?: For babies and sensitive skin, a mineral sunscreen with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide is a common choice because it sits on top of the skin rather than absorbing into it. Whatever you choose, make sure it is labeled broad-spectrum.
How often should I reapply sunscreen on my child?: Apply sunscreen 15 to 30 minutes before going outside, then reapply every 2 hours. Reapply sooner after swimming, sweating, or towel drying, even with a water-resistant product.
What time of day is the sun strongest?: UV rays are strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. When possible, keep babies in shade during those hours and plan outdoor activities for earlier morning or later afternoon.
Do hats and clothing really matter if I use sunscreen?: Yes. Tight-weave or UPF clothing, a wide-brim hat, and shade are the most reliable protection, especially for babies. Sunscreen is one layer added on top, not a replacement for cover and shade.

Sources & further reading

Track every stage in one calm app.

ParentFlow is a free baby tracker that logs feeds, sleep, diapers, pumping and growth in one tap, with your daily summary, trends, and reminders based on your own logs. Free for everyday tracking on iPhone, Android, and the web.

App Store Google Play Open Web App

This guide reflects current AAP, CDC, and other public-health guidance and is for educational purposes only. It does not constitute medical advice. ParentFlow is a wellness companion — not a substitute for your pediatrician. For any medical concern, contact your healthcare provider.