Baby Sunscreen Protects Tender Skin

Children and babies offer up special problems for sun protection. Not only is their soft skin particularly susceptible to sunburn, children just aren't sunscreen friendly. You put sunscreen on your baby's arms and feet, and she promptly tries to eat it. The toddler takes one sniff of the lotion and takes off at a run before you get the first dab of lotion on her. Clearly, when it comes to a baby sunscreen, you have some very special considerations.

A good sunblock for your infant or toddler should be non-toxic above all. It should also provide at least an SPF 30 level of protection, and be rated for both UVA and UVB ultraviolet light. Colors can make sunblock fun for a toddler, though they can freak a baby out; and a pleasant-smelling sunblock will make a child more willing to cooperate with you.

If you really want to get a great sunblock, look for one that's manufactured in Australia. With one of the strictest regulatory processes for sun protection products in the world, Australian sunblocks include only the best ingredients and provide the very best available sun protection for your child. Unfortunately, they are also among the most expensive.

You don't have to buy expensive lotion to provide your baby with sun protection. Just look for the basics: hypoallergenic, nontoxic, great protection, PABA-free. You can also avoid putting the baby in direct sunlight (keep him in the shade as much as possible) and purchase SPF-rated clothing for them to play in at the beach.