Summer Skincare & Sun Safety for Newborns: A Baby Nurse’s Guide to Protecting Delicate Skin
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By Monica Bykov, RN, IBCLC, NCS -
As a baby nurse with over 27 years of experience caring for newborns, I’ve seen firsthand how vulnerable our tiniest humans are—especially during the heat of summer. While sunshine and fresh air are beautiful parts of childhood, newborns need special protection during the warmer months. Their skin is incredibly delicate, their bodies are still learning how to regulate temperature, and their ability to sweat or cool themselves is limited.
Here’s my professional guide to keeping your baby’s skin safe, cool, and healthy all summer long.
1. Understand Newborn Skin Sensitivity
Newborn skin is thinner and more permeable than adult skin, making it highly sensitive to UV rays, heat, and irritants. Even short sun exposure can cause burns, irritation, or rashes. Their skin barrier is still developing, so protection isn’t just important—it’s essential.
Reference: Blume-Peytavi, U. et al. (2012). Skin care practices for newborns and infants: Review of the clinical evidence for best practices. Pediatric Dermatology. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1525-1470.2012.01702.x
2. Dress for Defense: Lightweight, UV-Protective Clothing
Choose loose, breathable clothing with long sleeves and full coverage in a lightweight, UPF 50+ fabric. This specially made UV-protective clothing adds a layer of sun defense without overheating your baby.
Reference: Skin Cancer Foundation. (n.d.). Sun Protection for Babies. https://www.skincancer.org/skin-cancer-prevention/children/sun-protection-for-babies/
3. Use Sun Hats & Stroller Fans
A wide-brimmed sun hat with a neck flap offers critical shade for your baby’s face, neck, and ears. Pair it with a clip-on stroller fan (with soft blades) to create a cool breeze and prevent overheating when you’re out and about. Never drape a blanket over the stroller—it traps heat and restricts airflow.
Reference: American Academy of Pediatrics. (2022). Keeping Children Safe in Hot Cars. https://www.healthychildren.org/English/safety-prevention/on-the-go/Pages/Preventing-Hyperthermia.aspx
4. Be Mindful of Overheating
Signs of overheating include flushed cheeks, rapid breathing, irritability, and sweating. Babies cannot sweat efficiently to cool themselves, so always:
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Keep outings short during peak heat (10am–4pm).
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Offer frequent feeds to prevent dehydration.
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Dress in a single layer indoors unless swaddling for sleep.
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Avoid leaving baby in warm carriers for long durations.
Reference: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). (2022). Extreme Heat and Children. https://www.cdc.gov/disasters/extremeheat/children.html
5. Shield from Car Window Burns
Babies can burn through a car window. Sunlight intensifies in vehicles, especially through untinted glass. Install UV-blocking window shades and never leave baby in a parked car—temperatures rise dangerously fast, even with cracked windows.
Reference: American Academy of Pediatrics. (2021). Heatstroke Risks in Cars. https://www.healthychildren.org/English/safety-prevention/on-the-go/Pages/Preventing-Hyperthermia.aspx
6. Check Car Seat & Stroller Materials
Metal buckles and dark plastic parts can heat up quickly and cause burns. Always test with your hand first. Cover them with a muslin cloth or choose summer-friendly gear with mesh ventilation.
Reference: Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). (n.d.). Keeping Baby Safe in Hot Weather. https://www.cpsc.gov/Safety-Education/Safety-Guides/Kids-and-Babies/
7. Use Age-Appropriate Sunblock With Caution
For babies under 6 months, prioritize shade and clothing. If exposure is unavoidable, the AAP allows small amounts of mineral sunscreen (zinc oxide or titanium dioxide) on limited areas. For babies over 6 months, use fragrance-free, broad-spectrum SPF 30+ and reapply every 2 hours.
Reference: American Academy of Pediatrics. (2023). Sun Safety and Sunscreen for Children. https://www.healthychildren.org/English/safety-prevention/at-play/Pages/Sun-Safety.aspx
8. Keep Indoor Temperatures Comfortable
Ideal room temperatures for babies are 68°F to 72°F (20°C to 22°C). Use a room thermometer and maintain good air circulation without direct fan airflow. During sleep, dress baby in a breathable sleep sack or light swaddle.
Reference: NHS UK. (2022). How to dress your baby for sleep. https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/baby/babys-sleep/
Final Thoughts from a Baby Nurse
Protecting your baby from the summer sun isn’t about staying indoors all season—it’s about planning ahead, dressing smart, and staying alert. Their skin and bodies may be delicate now, but with the right care, they’ll thrive in every season.