To improve patient care and outcomes, leading dermatologists from the Cutis Editorial Board answered 5 questions on pediatric skin care. Here’s what we found.
Do you recommend sunscreen in babies younger than 6 months?
More than half (64%) of dermatologists we surveyed do not recommend using sunscreens in babies younger than 6 months; they should stay out of the sun. They recommended sun-protective clothing, hats, and sunglasses in this age group.
Expert Commentary
Provided by Shari R. Lipner, MD, PhD (New York, New York)
Babies younger than 6 months are still developing barrier functionality and have a higher surface area to body weight ratio compared to older children and adults. There is decreased UV light barrier protection and increased risk for systemic drug absorption. Therefore, it is best to avoid sunscreen in babies younger than 6 months. Instead, I recommend avoiding sunlight during peak hours, keeping babies in the shade, and dressing them in sun-protective clothing and hats.
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