SUMMER SKIN CARE FOR YOUR BABY

                           

Everyone loves a sunny day, but you've got to be extra careful when it comes to your baby's sensitive skin. Here's what you need to know about warm-weather and summer skin care for your baby.

SUNBURN

Because a baby’s skin is thin and delicate, it can easily get sunburned. And as you (and millions of other people) probably know from personal experience, that can really hurt. To make matters worse, one bad SU in childhood doubles the risk of malignant melanoma, the most deadly kind of skin cancer, later in life. Sorry to be so scary, but that’s a fact — and it’s no wonder sunscreen and summer skin care have become synonymous.

How to treat: First, cool the skin by gently applying a cold, wet washcloth for ten to 15 minutes, three or four times a day, until the redness goes away. Then soothe the skin with aloe-vera gel or a mild hypoallergenic moisturizer. Always consult a doctor if the sunburn is anything other than mild.

How to prevent: When it comes to summer skin care for your baby, there’s a lot you can do to keep your tot from getting burned. Dress your little sunflower in a hat with a wide brim and lightweight clothes made of tightly woven fabric. And about 15 to 30 minutes before going outside, apply sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher and waterproof). With younger babies (under six months), dab a small amount on exposed skin and rely on shade and clothing (such as long sleeves and pants) to do the rest. With older tots, slather away — reapplying every couple of hours, especially after water play.

HEAT RASH

Heat rash (or prickly heat) is a common summer skin-care problem. It shows up as tiny red bumps on the face, neck, armpits, and upper torso, and can make for one very cranky customer. That’s because the bumps — which are caused by clogged sweat-gland pores that trap perspiration — are pretty darn itchy and uncomfortable.

How to treat: Cool your prickly tot with a lukewarm bath. Use a mild soap and nix any powder or lotion after, which can further block pores. The rash will usually fade within a week, but call the doctor if you see pustules and swelling (those could be signs of a yeast or bacterial infection).

How to prevent: Keep your baby from getting too hot and bothered in the first place. In sweltering weather, cut down on the time she spends hanging out in a sling or carrier (your body heat plus the lack of ventilation isn’t a great combo) and dress your tot in loose-fitting, lightweight clothes.

INSECT BITES

Are insects bugging your baby? While most insect bites are harmless, your little one is bound to be bothered by the itch (or the occasional sting).

How to treat: Wash the area with soap and water. Then apply a cold, wet washcloth to reduce any swelling or pain. With itchy bites, you can also use calamine lotion. If you notice signs of an allergic reaction (such as severe pain or swelling, difficulty breathing, hives, or itching all over the body), call the pediatrician ASAP.

How to prevent: For babies younger than two months, the best defense is a chemical-free one: Dress newborns in lightweight long-sleeve tops, long pants, a hat, and socks to ward off biting bugs. You can also cover your baby’s stroller with insect netting and head indoors at dusk when the mosquitoes come out.

The good news is that it’s safe to use products containing some DEET or picaridin (your best bets against biting insects) on infants older than two months, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), as long as you avoid products that contain more than 30 percent DEET or 10 percent picaridin. Whatever insect repellent you use, don’t put it on your child more than once a day and avoid getting it near her eyes, mouth, or on her hands. When you’re back inside, don’t put it on your child more than once a day and avoid getting it near her eyes, mouth, or on her hands. When you’re back inside, remember to wash it off with soap and water.