We’re halfway through Ramadan. It’s just a couple of weeks and we’ll be celebrating the Eid we’ve been waiting for. Due to the summer heat, almost everyone will be planning a summer vacation to beat the heat after Ramadan. A lot of people will be heading to the beaches after Ramadan with their children. As babies’ skin is sensitive to the heat here are some tips to protect your baby’s skin in the summer and the most common skin conditions, and how to deal with them.
How to Protect Your baby's Skin in the Summer
Stay in the Shade
If you let your baby play outside, keep him away from the direct sun rays. Avoid going out between noon and 2:00 PM.
Getting an umbrella designed to filter UV rays is a good idea to let your baby inspect the world without harming her skin.
Watch for Signs of Skin Conditions
Babies can’t speak up for themselves. If your babies skin shows any signs of redness, she might have got sunburnt. Take her indoors immediately.
Pick the Right Clothes
Outfit your baby with sleeved loose clothes, a wide hat, and sunglasses.
Pick up the Right Products
Sunscreens
The American Academy of Pediatrics has approved the use of sunscreens on babies, even for infants under 6 months. It’s recommended to put a small amount of sunscreen on your baby’s skin and his face 20 minutes before heading outside.
Look for sunscreens with protection SPF 15+. Reapply every 2 hours. If your baby perspires or goes for a swim reapply every 40 minutes.
Lotions and Creams
Test your baby’s skin for allergies before using lotions. PABA is the most common allergen. Watch for Cinnamates, Benzophenones, and Anthranilates. If you see signs of allergy, switch to another product. Use lotions designed specifically for babies. There are also plenty of good moisturizers out there for babies.
As a general rule, seek products that are free of fragrances, colors, and soap.
Most Common Baby's Skin Conditions in the Summer
Sunburn
Because baby’s skin is so delicate, it can’t tolerate heat; and it’s more prone to get sunburnt.
To treat it, put a cold washcloth for ten minutes on the affected area then, soothe the skin with a baby moisturizer.
Heat Rash
It appears as tiny red bumps on the face, neck, armpits, and upper torso.
To treat it, cool the area with lukewarm bath. Use a gentle wash or a baby body bar that are soap-free.
Insect Bites
Most insects’ bites are harmless, but they really bother your baby and cause her to itch.
To treat insect bites, wash the area with baby body bar or a baby gentle wash and put a cool washcloth to the affected area.
Sources
Parents magazine – Parents.com
Whattoexpect.com