Baby at the beach: how to protect him from the sun?

Babies should never be exposed to the sun before the age of 1 year. Melanin production is very low at this age. This pigment, which gives color to our skin, hair and eyes, is also responsible for tanning, our first line of defense against the sun's UV rays. In the heat, infants can become dehydrated very quickly.

After 1 year, sun exposure must remain very controlled. A child should not be exposed to the sun between 12 p.m. and 4 p.m. Babies must stay in the shade as much as possible because their skin and eyes are much more fragile than ours. Did you know that excessive sun exposure during childhood is the leading cause of melanoma (skin cancer) in adulthood?

Clothes and parasol to protect baby from the sun

The parasol is an essential protection. But its canvas can let up to 50% of UV rays pass through the mesh. Some models have a canvas treated for sun protection (the ideal is a protection index of 50+). Despite everything, this protection remains insufficient since the sand reflects 15% of the UV rays it receives!

Dressing your baby is the first recommended protection to protect him from the sun's UV rays and therefore from sunburn. Just like the parasol, the mesh of regular clothes lets UV rays through, especially when they are wet. There are special anti-UV clothing whose mesh effectively filters UV rays even when soaked in water. T-shirts, swimsuits, or shorts then meet the EN 13758-2+A1 standard. Very practical for babies who are not yet toilet trained, the swim diaper can be disposable or washable (more environmentally friendly).

Don't forget to put a wide-brimmed hat on your child to protect their face and neck.

Baby sunglasses

Sunglasses are a must to protect your baby's eyes from the sun's UV rays. Children's eyes are much more fragile than yours, and the sun's rays could cause irreversible damage to the retina, lens or cornea .

Wraparound glasses are the most suitable, some are equipped with an elastic band for a better fit on the face. In all cases, the category of the lenses should never be lower than 3. For your young child, prefer a category 4 so that the lenses filter a maximum of UV and 97% of the brightness. Check that the pairs of glasses are stamped with the CE standard.

To take care of your baby's eyes, plan on having some doses of physiological serum. This can be useful if he has sand in his eyes!

Choosing a baby sunscreen

To protect your baby's exposed skin from the sun, it is best to use sunscreen products with a maximum SPF (50+) that reflect the sun's UV rays and are labeled "water-resistant". There are special formulations for children to avoid damaging their fragile skin. 

Apply sunscreen generously to exposed areas (face, neck, arms, legs) and after each swim even if the cream is water-resistant. The application must be renewed every hour. Don't forget to protect baby's ears!

Be careful, sunscreens are never 100% effective. For more information, you can read our article on sun protection.

Baby Feeding at the Beach

Be vigilant at the beach, including when feeding your baby. Having something to hydrate and feed your baby is essential when you prepare your beach bag. At the seaside, the heat can be intense, and your child must not get dehydrated!

Hydration at the beach: avoiding baby heatstroke

Even if you avoid the hottest hours of the day, your baby needs to stay hydrated at the beach. A bottle of formula or breastfeeding will keep your baby hydrated, but in very hot weather you will also need to offer him water. Always bring a bottle of water, a bottle to make him drink, and a spray bottle to cool him down. Even if your baby is not thirsty, offer him a few sips regularly. This will help prevent heatstroke .

In case of nausea or vomiting, fever, abnormal drowsiness, sunken eyes, or even rapid breathing, contact emergency services quickly.

Plan a snack for baby

If you get hungry, don't forget to bring a snack like cakes, compotes or fruit. For more information on baby's diet, read our article on diversifying food from 1 to 3 years old .

Don't forget the wipes to dry baby's hands, they will prevent him from eating sand during snack time! Washing baby's hands is an essential step against germs. There is a 100% plant-based and alcohol-free disinfectant foam, ideal for children's delicate skin.

Baby Beach Toys

To make the beach a pleasant place for baby, choose toys that are appropriate for his age. Floating toys can also entertain him during a swim that you will accompany safely.

Floats can help with swimming. Check that they are CE marked and that they meet the NF13138-1 standard. To swim safely, follow the recommendations of the Ministry of Health. Lifeguards can also provide you with an identification bracelet reserved for children under 5 years old. If your child accidentally escapes your vigilance, the identification bracelet allows you to quickly make contact with the parents.

Better yet, at the beach, never take your eyes off your child!