As you all know that winter is going away and the season of summer is making a knock at the door. Summer season is all about long, sunny days accompanied with lots of outdoor activities and the amazing family vacations as well.
But as a mother, you need to be extra careful when it comes to your baby's sensitive skin. As with warm weather exposure there comes risks to your baby’s tender skin, including the sun’s harmful rays and biting insects.
So here I am penning down some few summer skin care tips that will help you protect your little munchkins for harsh summer heat.
- Keeping Baby Hydrated: Make sure to keep your baby hydrated. If your toddler has started eating solids, then a couple of feeds accompanied by boiled food is ideal. Make sure to keep powdered milk as regular stuff goes bad quickly in the heat.
- Avoid Direct Sunlight, Choose Sun screen: Make sure to keep the little kid out of the direct sunlight. When the newborn has completed his 6 month mark sunscreens can also be applied. While making the choice, one should consider a broad spectrum sunscreen which protects against UVA & UVB rays. Make sure to avoid sunscreens that contain benzophenones, oxybenzone, parabens and those that are tinted or scented. Choose sunscreens which contain zinc oxide or titanium dioxide with and sun protection factor (SPF) of 30.
- Keeping Baby Cool: The problem of heat rashes is quite common in kids during summers. So to keep your little one cool, you can add two spoons of sandalwood powder in their bath water and apply talcum powder to the affected area.
- Dressing Kids In Summers: During summers, it’s good to dress up your little one in light weight cotton clothing. Choose dark hues of red, blue or green as these color clothes do not absorb sunlight. Let your child wear a broad brimmed hat and sunglasses to help protect the eyes and the sensitive area that surrounds the eyes. Switch diapers from time to time and make the kids wear loose clothes, if they are uncomfortable.
- Protecting Kid From Common Illness: Until 6 months, toddler relies on mother’s immunity as he is being breastfed. Once this ends, you can take care to make sure their immune system grows strong enough. So, focus should be given on a balanced diet for a healthy protection system and ensure they are well-hydrated. Do not let the kids sweat too much or leave them damp for too long as it could affect them adversely. You can consult your doctors for the immunity-boosting food supplements.
- Treating Bugs Bites: Make sure to wash the area with soap and water. After cleaning, apply a cold, wet washcloth to reduce any swelling or pain. Calamine lotion can be used to treat itchy bites.
These tips are sure to help you out during summers, for taking proper care of your baby. If you have some tips then don’t forget to share them in the comment section.
FAQ's
Q. How can I keep my baby hydrated during summer?
Ans.Ensure your baby stays well-hydrated by offering regular breastfeeds or formula. If your toddler has started solids, provide boiled foods along with plenty of water. Powdered milk is preferable over regular milk, as it doesn’t spoil quickly in heat. Hydration helps prevent dehydration and keeps your baby healthy and active.
Q. Is it safe to use sunscreen on babies?
Ans.Sunscreen can be applied after your baby turns six months. Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, and SPF 30. Avoid products with parabens, oxybenzone, or fragrances. Always apply sunscreen on exposed skin, and avoid direct sun during peak hours to protect your baby’s sensitive skin.
Q. How can I prevent heat rashes in babies during summer?
Ans.To prevent heat rashes, keep your baby cool with light cotton clothing and regular baths. Adding two spoons of sandalwood powder to bath water helps. Apply talcum powder on affected areas to absorb excess moisture. Ensure the baby stays in shaded, well-ventilated areas and doesn’t overheat.
Q. What type of clothes are best for babies in summer?
Ans.Dress babies in lightweight, breathable cotton clothes to keep them cool. Dark colors like red, blue, or green are recommended as they reflect sunlight. Loose-fitting clothes allow air circulation and reduce sweating. Additionally, use broad-brimmed hats and sunglasses to protect their sensitive skin and eyes from harsh sun rays.
Q. How can I protect my baby from common summer illnesses?
Ans.Boost your baby’s immunity with a balanced diet rich in nutrients and ensure proper hydration. Prevent excessive sweating and avoid leaving your baby in damp clothes. Breastfeeding helps strengthen immunity for babies under six months. For older babies, consult a pediatrician for suitable supplements to help support their growing immune system.
Q. What should I do if my baby gets bug bites?
Ans.Clean bug bites with soap and water to reduce infection risk. Apply a cold, wet washcloth to the affected area to minimize swelling and pain. For itchy bites, use calamine lotion after consulting your pediatrician. Keeping the baby’s skin clean and applying gentle remedies helps soothe discomfort effectively.
Q. Why is it important to avoid direct sunlight for babies?
Ans.Direct sunlight exposes babies’ sensitive skin to harmful UVA and UVB rays, increasing the risk of sunburn or long-term skin damage. It can also cause dehydration and overheating. Babies under six months should ideally stay in the shade. For older infants, use appropriate sunscreens and protective clothing to minimize exposure.
Q. Can I give my baby fruits during summer?
Ans.Yes, you can provide fruits like banana, apple, and kiwi in small, soft chunks mixed with yogurt. Ensure fruits are washed properly, cut into small pieces, and yogurt is at room temperature. This keeps the baby hydrated and provides essential vitamins and minerals, making it a healthy and refreshing summer snack.
Q. How often should I change my baby’s diapers in summer?
Ans.In summer, change diapers frequently to prevent rashes caused by sweating and moisture buildup. Loose-fitting diapers and regular checks help maintain comfort and prevent skin irritation. Always use breathable, absorbent diapers, and wipe the baby gently with mild wipes before applying fresh diapers to keep their skin dry.
Q. What are simple ways to keep my baby cool in summer?
Ans.Dress your baby in light cotton clothes and keep them in shaded areas. Use a broad-brimmed hat and sunglasses for extra protection. Add sandalwood powder to their bath for a cooling effect and apply talcum powder on sweaty areas. Ensure they stay hydrated and avoid strenuous outdoor activities during peak heat.
