When the sun is shining and you're eager to get outside with your little one, it’s natural to want to soak up every minute. But when it comes to infant skin, sun safety isn't optional, it’s essential. Babies have delicate, thinner skin that's more vulnerable to sun damage, making them especially sensitive to UV rays. And while chubby cheeks in the sunshine might be picture-perfect, protecting that sensitive skin should always come first.

So, how can you safely enjoy the sun with a baby in tow? Let’s talk all things sunscreen for infants, including when to use it, how to apply it, and what other sun protection habits matter just as much.

First things first: Can you use sunscreen on an infant?

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends avoiding sunscreen on babies under 6 months and instead focusing on keeping them out of direct sunlight altogether. Their skin is more likely to absorb ingredients, even from gentle formulations, and they can’t regulate body temperature as well, which makes shade and protection priority number one.

If sun exposure is unavoidable and your pediatrician gives you the green light, a small amount of mineral-based sunscreen can be used on exposed areas like the back of the hands, feet, or face.

TL;DR: Under 6 months? Stick to shade and protective clothing. 6 months and older? Bring on the SPF, with a few extra precautions.

Best practices for sun safety with infants

Even once your baby hits the 6-month mark, sunscreen is only one part of the puzzle. These tips can help you build a well-rounded sun protection routine:

Seek out shade

Umbrellas, stroller canopies, and wide-brimmed hats are your best friends. The goal is to keep your infant’s skin shielded from direct sun, especially between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., when UV rays are strongest.

Dress smart

Lightweight, breathable clothing with long sleeves and pants can offer great coverage without overheating your little one. Bonus if the fabric includes built-in UPF protection.

Stay hydrated

Babies can overheat quickly, so it’s important to keep them cool and hydrated. For infants under 6 months, that means frequent breastfeeding or bottle feeding.

Choose the right sunscreen

Once your baby is old enough, choose a mineral sunscreen (look for zinc oxide or titanium dioxide as the active ingredients) that’s specifically formulated for sensitive skin. These sit on the skin’s surface and reflect rays rather than absorbing them, making them ideal for delicate infant skin.

What to look for in the best sunscreen for infants

Navigating the sunscreen aisle (or let’s be real, your online cart) can be overwhelming. Here’s what matters most when choosing a sunscreen for your baby:

• Mineral-based: Look for zinc oxide and titanium dioxide.
  

• Fragrance-free: Reduces the risk of irritation.
  

• Broad-spectrum: Protects against both UVA and UVB rays.
  

• Water-resistant: Especially important for sweaty summer days or splashy playtime.
  

• SPF 30 or higher: Offers a solid balance of protection without overdoing it.
  

Looking for a gentle, targeted option? We love our Tubby Todd Sun Stick for its clean ingredients and easy glide-on formula.

Why we love the Tubby Todd Sun Stick for babies

When you’re applying sunscreen to a squirmy baby (on the go, in the car seat, or mid-diaper change), sometimes a full-body application just isn’t practical. That’s where the Sun Stick shines (pun intended).

• Easy to apply: Glide it directly onto small areas like the nose, cheeks, or backs of the hands.
  

• Mess-free: No spills or drips, ideal for tossing into a diaper bag.
  

• Gentle formula: Mineral-based with non-nano zinc oxide, no synthetic fragrances, and made for sensitive skin.
  

It’s perfect for spot applications or topping off protection throughout the day. We especially recommend using it for that “last layer” of protection on delicate spots after you’ve done a base layer with lotion or spray.

How to apply sunscreen to your infant

Sunscreen application on babies is all about being gentle, consistent, and thorough. Here’s a step-by-step:

1. Apply 15–20 minutes before sun exposure. This gives the sunscreen time to form a protective layer.
   

2. Use clean hands to gently apply. Smooth (don’t rub) sunscreen onto your baby’s exposed skin, focusing on the face, ears, hands, feet, and neck.
   

3. Don’t forget often-missed spots. Hairlines, around the ears, and behind the knees are easy to skip.
   

4. Reapply every two hours. Or more often if baby has been sweating or playing in water—even with water-resistant formulas.
   

5. Use the Sun Stick for touch-ups. It’s ideal for topping off coverage on the go or getting those extra-sensitive areas without a mess.
   

Want more tips? Check out our blog on Hacks for Applying Sunscreen on Your Kids for parent-tested tricks.

What about spray sunscreen?

Sprays are popular for toddlers and big kids, but for infants, especially under one year, stick with lotion or stick formulas you can control. Sprays can be inhaled and make it harder to apply an even layer, which isn’t ideal for delicate infant skin.

If you’re shopping for older kiddos, check out our post on Choosing the Best Spray Sunscreen for Your Kids.

H2: Final reminders for sunny days ahead

1. The safest way to protect infants under 6 months? Keep them in the shade, covered, and cool.

2. Once they’re old enough, choose a gentle mineral sunscreen like our Sun Stick for targeted protection.

3. Apply early and often—and don’t forget the reapplication dance every 2 hours.

Want more ideas for a safe, happy summer with your little ones? Check out 6 Tips for Summertime Skincare for even more sunshine-ready advice.

Here’s to sunny adventures, sweet memories, and skin that stays protected through it all.